As we send this issue off to press, I am en route to Washington, D.C., with 50 fellow Chicago REALTORS® who are ready to advocate for our industry, our clients and our communities.
This marks my 10th NAR Legislative Conference—still fondly called “Midyear” by many of us—and I have been reflecting on my first experience in 2016. I joined John Kmiecik and his FPC team on a Hill Visit with then Representative Dan Lipinski. The conversation was focused, smart and passionate, covering issues like flood insurance, FHA condo regulations and 1031 like-kind exchanges. It was the first time I saw REALTORS® in action as policy experts.
That day something changed within me. Politics had always felt distant until I witnessed our elected officials actively seeking insight from REALTORS®. They did not just listen politely; they asked questions and wanted to understand how policy decisions would impact real people. They looked to us for answers.
Since that first Hill Visit, I have sat across the table from lawmakers at every level—city, state and federal—alongside volunteers who consistently show up prepared and passionate. Together, we advocate for homeowner protections, smart growth and fair housing. We speak up for property rights and opportunity, and we never stop showing up.
Advocacy is at the heart of what we do, and it does not happen without you. Whether you are testifying at City Hall, walking the halls of the State Capitol in Springfield or leading a meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington, your voice matters. Your perspective matters. You make a difference.
To all of our volunteer leaders, FPCs, GADs and advocacy champions, thank you. Our communities are stronger because of your work.
I hope to see you at one of our upcoming events—and maybe even on the Hill next year. As always, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out anytime at jkern@chicagorealtor.com.
JESSICA KERN, CAE, RCE
Chief Communications Officer
jkern@chicagorealtor.com