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EALTOR® state associations are being asked to send letters to Congress detailing the damage caused by the longest full shutdown in U.S. history. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has supplied a template that highlights delayed closings, canceled contracts, and the suspension of key housing programs—NFIP, FHA, VA, USDA, and limited HUD services. These disruptions are destabilizing the market and hurting families, buyers, and sellers nationwide. The Congressional Budget Office estimates a 30‑day shutdown cost $11 billion, with $3 billion permanently lost.
On Oct. 22, NAR issued a call for information, inviting members to submit personal stories of the shutdown’s impact. Unlike a one‑click call for action, this effort has already yielded 164 submissions from across the country. Analysis shows 68 % of stories reference federal housing programs: VA (95 mentions), USDA (75), NFIP (74), and FHA (68). About a dozen accounts detail direct hardship, family strain, or delayed purchases. Responses came from 88 local associations—roughly 8 % of the 1,100 local boards.
Previously, NAR’s targeted Call for Action asked Federal Political Coordinators to contact their members of Congress about NFIP’s importance. That outreach reached 75 % of Congress within 48 hours and now covers nearly all members.
“NAR’s message is clear: the longer the shutdown, the greater the harm to the real‑estate market and taxpayers,” says Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn. “The Senate must act swiftly to pass a bipartisan continuing resolution or long‑term funding measure to reopen the government. Americans buying or selling homes, strengthening communities, or simply making ends meet deserve reliable government support.”
If your business feels the shutdown’s impact, share your story.
