Description

Event Overview:
Join REALTORS® from across Massachusetts for a day of advocacy and education at the State House. This event provides a unique opportunity to learn about the key legislative issues shaping the real estate industry and private property rights in 2025. The day will feature a general session followed by meetings with SouthCoast area legislators to discuss important business matters impacting the real estate sector. 

There will be an announcement of MAR's 2025 Private Property Rights Award. Refreshments will be served prior to the event in Nurses Hall.

Keynote Speaker:
State Representative Richard Haggerty, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing, will deliver the keynote address. Representative Haggerty will provide valuable insights on housing policy and the critical role REALTORS® play in advocating for homeownership and protecting private property rights.

Additional Information:

• Lunch and Bus Transportation: Provided at no cost. Bus transportation is as follows:
  • 7:15am - RASEM Headquarters, 651 Orchard Street, Suite 101, New Bedford, MA 02744
  • 7:45am - Target Parking Lot (81 Taunton Depot Drive, Taunton, MA 02780)
  • 8:15am - Coldwell Banker Realty, 159 Belmont Street, South Easton, MA 02375
• Cost: Free to attend
• RSVP Required: Please RSVP for lunch if attending independently by calling 508-993-0406 or emailing Kerri at kerri@rasem.realtor.
• Action Needed: Help us fill the bus and make a strong showing for grassroots advocacy!

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with policymakers and fellow REALTORS® as we advocate for a better housing future in Massachusetts.

Legislative Priorities:

REALTORS®  SUPPORT

Fair Housing & Diversity Education 

REALTORS® support H.343/S.232, requiring fair housing and diversity education for Massachusetts real estate licensees. Fair housing is an issue that touches every transaction, and it is essential that all real estate licensees understand their duties under the law.

First-Time Homebuyer Savings Accounts

REALTORS® support H.3041 & H.3192 / S.2002, creating first-time homebuyer savings accounts—empowering individuals and families with new financial tools to achieve the American dream of homeownership in Massachusetts, while strengthening communities across the state. 

Funding for Crumbling Concrete Foundations

REALTORS® support H.3041 & H.3192 / S.2002, creating first-time homebuyer savings accounts—empowering individuals and families with new financial tools to achieve the American dream of homeownership in Massachusetts, while strengthening communities across the state. 

Written Real Estate Service Agreements

REALTORS® support H.1996, requiring written real estate service agreements to maximize transparency, formalize working relationships with detailed services and expectations. It amends the Statute of Frauds, requiring real estate service contracts be in writing to be legally enforceable.

REALTORS® OPPOSE:

Transfer Taxes

REALTORS® oppose all transfer taxes bills that would impose a sales tax on homes. Adding a tax will increase historically high prices and perpetuate exclusionary housing practices in our cities and towns. Transfer Taxes stifle diversity and inclusivity, worsen Massachusetts’ longstanding housing affordability crisis, and decrease housing inventory.