As REALTORS®, we are not only market experts, but also community advocates committed to making homeownership more accessible and sustainable. In 2025, our advocacy efforts have taken center stage, driving policies that address housing shortages, affordability barriers, and property tax relief—at every level of government.
That’s why I am proud that REALTORS® and our national, state, and local Advocacy teams are working hard with elected officials at all levels of government to increase housing inventory, improve access to affordable homeownership, and address overall housing costs. Here’s a recap of the progress we’ve seen at the federal, state, and local level in 2025.
Federal Advocacy: REALTOR® Impact in Washington, D.C.
In June, ABoR members joined thousands of REALTORS® at NAR’s 2025 Legislative Meetings to advocate for key housing legislation, including:
• More Homes on the Market Act (H.R. 1340): Incentivizes long-term homeowners to sell, increasing housing inventory.
• Housing Supply Framework Act (H.R. 2840/S. 1299): Reduces development barriers nationwide.
• Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410): Encourages residential use of underutilized commercial spaces.
• Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R. 3526): Expands IRA withdrawal options for first-time homebuyers.
• Fair and Equal Housing Act: Codifies protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in housing.
State Advocacy: REALTOR® Wins at the Texas Capitol
The 89th Texas Legislature delivered major wins with 60 REALTOR®-supported bills signed into law. In March, over 150 ABoR members joined 3,000 REALTORS® statewide for REALTOR® Day at the Capitol, advocating for tax relief and housing affordability.
Key legislative victories include:
Property Tax Relief:
• SB 4: Raises the Homestead Exemption from $100K to $140K (Proposition 13).
• SB 23: Increases the senior/disabled exemption from $10K to $60K (Proposition 11).
• HB 9: Boosts the business personal property exemption from $2,500 to $125,000 (Proposition 9).
Housing Affordability:
• SB 15: Limits large cities from requiring residential lot sizes above 3,000 sq. ft.
• SB 840: Allows residential and mixed-use development “by-right” on commercial land in large cities.
• HB 24: Streamlines zoning change processes, enabling more housing options.
Local Advocacy: ABoR in Action Across
Central Texas
REALTOR® Advocacy happens daily—not just at the Capitol, but in City Halls and County Courts. ABoR remains a strong voice for local policies that promote housing affordability and growth.
This spring, ABoR supported a successful initiative by the Austin City Council to streamline site plan reviews for “missing middle” housing (5–16 units), easing costly drainage requirements and accelerating housing production.
We also empowered homeowners by hosting four free property tax protest workshops and launched our Property Protest Hub (UnlockMLS.com/PropertyProtest), helping hundreds of residents in person and more than 570 online navigate their appraisals and appeals.
Moving Forward Together
Our mission is clear: Increase housing supply, support existing homeowners, and make sure everyone has a fair shot at the American Dream. That includes ensuring fixed-income residents can stay in their homes and that families of all income levels can buy into the Central Texas market.
We’ve made tremendous progress—but the work isn’t done. Our advocacy is only as strong as our members’ participation. Whether you’re meeting with lawmakers, sharing your story, or volunteering your time, your voice matters.
Want to join me and get involved? Contact ABoR’s Advocacy team at advocacy@abor.com or visit UnlockMLS.com/Advocacy. Together, we can shape policies that protect homeownership and create opportunities for generations to come.