REALTORS® from across Alabama traveled to Washington, D.C. last week to participate in theNational Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2026 REALTOR® Legislative Meetings. The week including meetings with members of Congress and Capitol Hill staff, advocating for REALTORS® and private property rights, and informative educational sessions.

AAR President Mary Jane Owen kicked off the event by welcoming fellow REALTORS® from Alabama and Region 5 at the Alabama Welcome Reception. 

Alabama Federal Political Coordinators—REALTORS® assigned to build relationships with members of Congress—led discussions in congressional offices on key topics ranging from increasing the housing supply to housing affordability challenges.

The NAR Board of Directors met Thursday to elect its 2027 officers and conduct association business. Actions included accepting NAR's 2025 year-end financial statements and approving keeping annual dues at $156 per member. Of that amount, $35 from the special assessment will be allocated to NAR's general operating account, and $10 will support the Consumer Advertising Campaign. The Board also announced that the 2027 budget will be considered during the NAR NXT meeting in November. This change allows additional time to incorporate finalized financial data and aligns with NAR's new zero-based budgeting approach.

Directors also considered a proposed addition to Article 1 of the Code of Ethics, Standard of Practice 1-17. The proposal would clarify a REALTOR®'s duty to disclose when they lack the knowledge, information, or skills necessary to adequately protect and promote a client's interests regarding a particular property type or geographic area. Following discussion, the proposal was referred back to the Professional Standards Committee for further review. You can read more from the Board of Directors meeting here.

Five Alabama REALTORS® were among those inducted into the RPAC Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame inductees have invested at least $25,000 in RPAC over the course of their careers. Alabama REALTORS® recognized this year included Bruce Sanford of Marshall County, RaJane Johnson of Morgan County, and Tommy Stanton of Baldwin County, who each reached the $25,000 Hall of Fame level; Bob McMillian of Morgan County, who reached the $50,000 level; and Mark Moody of Morgan County, who reached the $75,000 level. AAR is proud of these members for their dedication to advancing REALTOR® advocacy and supporting the election of pro-REALTOR® candidates.

Other highlights from the meetings included remarks from NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun on the June 2026 Real Estate and Economic Outlook and NAR Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn discussing updates on the home equity tax issue, key housing legislation moving through Congress, and the More Homes on the Market Act.