T
he National Association of Realtors (NAR) dropped a staggering $86.3 million on lobbying efforts in 2024, eclipsing all other organizations and shattering the previous year's spending by nearly $36 million. According to OpenSecrets, a nonprofit newsroom tracking campaign finance and politics, NAR's lobbying expenditures set a new record for the association, which has long been a major player in shaping housing policies.

    The surge in spending was largely driven by the 2024 election cycle, during which NAR threw its weight behind "pro-Realtor" candidates at all levels of government. The association's spokesperson emphasized that this effort was crucial to promoting the interests of the real estate industry, particularly in addressing pressing issues like affordability and inventory.

    A significant portion of NAR's lobbying dollars went toward supporting state and local housing initiatives, as well as defeating proposed taxes and regulations that could have negatively impacted the industry. At the national level, the association backed policies aimed at improving veteran housing, reducing mortgage costs, and increasing access to accessory dwelling units.

    However, not all of NAR's spending has been without controversy. A New York Times investigation raised questions about the association's ties to conservative groups and "Republican-aligned super PACs," despite its claims of nonpartisanship. NAR denied any wrongdoing, dismissing allegations of "dark money" and bias as "myths." The association also clarified that its lobbying efforts did not include funding for the American Property Owners Alliance (APOA), a nonprofit affiliate at the center of the controversy.

    The finance, insurance, and real estate sector accounted for over $636 million of the record-breaking $4.4 billion spent on federal lobbying in 2024. As NAR continues to navigate the complex landscape of housing policy, its advocacy efforts will remain crucial to shaping the industry's future.