O
n Oct. 22, amid the federal shutdown, the National Association of REALTORS® launched a Call For Information to gauge how the pause was affecting agents, clients and communities. Unlike a typical Call For Action, the request invited members to submit personal accounts of the shutdown’s ripple effects. The response was robust: 641 REALTORS® from every state, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico sent in stories, representing 386 local associations—roughly 35 % of the nation’s boards. The volume and depth of these submissions underscored the profession’s role as a frontline voice in the housing market.

    Key findings emerged. About 35.6 % of the narratives referenced federal housing programs—FHA, HUD, IRS, NFIP, USDA, and VA—with the USDA, VA, NFIP/flood insurance and FHA cited most frequently. More than 60 accounts detailed hardship, family strain, and the domino effect of delayed transactions. In total, 259 distinct associations were represented, covering roughly a quarter of local boards.

    Geographically, the bulk of responses came from high‑population states such as Florida, Texas and California. A REALTOR® from North Carolina highlighted how NFIP flood‑insurance renewals and USDA loan approvals are now bottlenecks for coastal and rural buyers. In many communities, nearly every financed purchase depends on one or both programs, so delays are collapsing deals and forcing families to abandon homes they had worked hard to secure. The fallout extends beyond real estate: military families, federal employees and local small businesses are feeling the squeeze, with revenue drops and mounting financial strain.

    California agents echoed similar frustrations. The shutdown has stalled FHA, VA and conventional loans, and the lack of government‑backed flood insurance has turned escrow processes into a “train wreck.” Sellers are hesitant amid market volatility, buyers are shrinking, and the overall confidence in the market is eroding.

    The collective voice of REALTORS® calls on Congress to enact a bipartisan continuing resolution or long‑term funding package to restore stability to the housing market and the broader economy. “Every day that passes without action chips away at the foundation of the American Dream,” says Shannon McGahn, NAR’s executive vice president and chief advocacy officer. The association urges lawmakers to reopen the government promptly, ensuring that housing and homeownership remain attainable for all Americans.