REALTOR Day at the Capitol

Today was the annual REALTOR® Day at the Capitol.  To most home owners and consumers this doesn’t mean much, however it is an important day focused on protecting homeowners rights in Arizona.  This was my second time attending the event and I am just as impressed this year as I was last year at the goals and objectives of the Arizona Association of Realtors (AAR).

I am often asked by consumers both what do Realtors® do for consumers besides sell them homes, and why do I spend so much time and energy on political issues.  The event today explains both of those questions well.  To start, AAR is Arizona’s largest trade lobbying organization.  AAR focuses on issues protecting homeowners rights.  Many of the issues tackled each year directly benefit home owners in Arizona.

For me politics has always been a passion.  Long before hosting my radio show on AM talk radio, I followed politics closely.  The immediate impact of laws that are passed affect both the way I live and the way I work.  In previous posts I have talked about how I was honored to be included in AAR’s legislative committee this year.  There are many issues coming up this year that directly affect home owners in Arizona and I am proud to be a part of it.

REALTOR® Day at the Capitol takes place at the beginning of each legislative session.  It includes a presentation to REALTORS® in attendance about the issues that are known to be coming up as well as meetings with our elected officials at the state level.  Not only am I on AAR’s legislative committee, but I am also the legislative liaison for Arizona Legislative District 6.  What this means is that I am the point of contact for LD6 elected officials to talk about housing related issues.

I was able to meet with Representative Carl Seel both at lunch today and afterwards in his office.  I am glad to report that Representative Seel is 100% for homeowners rights and the issues facing homeowners today.  A few of the issues we talked about were related to Anti-Deficiency Statutes and making it easier for home owners to realize the tax rebate given to people on their primary residence.  Sadly I did not get a chance to meet with Representative Amanda Reeve or Senator Lori Klein, but when I do I will report about their stances on the issues we are facing.

At this time I can not talk about all of the bills that will be brought up in this Legislative Session, but I can say that if everything goes well it will be a good year for Arizona Homeowners.  Also, if you have never visited our State Capitol, I strongly urge you to do so, and try and schedule a meeting with your elected officials.  Our political system may be frustrating at times, but when you take the time to be a part of the process, you appreciate it more.  As always, I am proud to be and American and proud to be an Arizonan.  Stay tuned for updates throughout the next few months on the issues facing you today.

Photo Credit: Dane Briggs of course!