Advocacy Scoop Podcast

More than half of NAR's advocacy dues are invested back into state and local associations through grants, political programs and other resources that help REALTORS® make an impact where it matters most.

In this special Leadership Week episode, Patrick takes The Advocacy Scoop to the big stage with guest host Helen Devlin, Shannon's right-hand and a longtime NAR Advocacy leader who has seen nearly every side of the organization's work.

Together, they break down how associations can get the most from NAR's advocacy resources—and, with an election just ahead, how those investments are already helping defend property rights, support pro-REALTOR® candidates and expand access to homeownership.

It's the three-way agreement in action—and a look at the advocacy infrastructure that helps power NAR's success.

The ROAD to Housing Act is now law—a landmark achievement that caps nearly two years of relentless advocacy by NAR. Powered by 1.4 million members, the campaign included congressional testimony, thousands of meetings, original research, coalition-building, expert policy guidance, and targeted Calls for Action.

No organization had a greater impact on getting this landmark legislation across the finish line.

Now, the baton passes from NAR's lobbying team to its policy experts as the regulatory process begins. What's next for the law's nearly 50 housing provisions?

Plus, while Congress is on August break, Shannon and Patrick reunite in Anaheim to discuss what's next for advocacy—and why, at NAR, there's no recess for the weary.

As America celebrates 250 years, Shannon and Patrick look back at the public policies that helped make homeownership one of the defining pillars of the American Dream. From the nation's earliest land policies to the creation of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, the Fair Housing Act, and modern efforts to expand housing supply and affordability, this episode explores how generations of advocates and lawmakers have strengthened opportunities for Americans to own. Tune in to hear why, 250 years later, homeownership remains one of America's greatest public policy success stories - and how NAR advocacy is working to ensure that legacy continues for generations to come.

As more than 7,000 REALTORS® prepare to take their message to Capitol Hill, momentum is building for bi-partisan housing policy in Congress. In this episode, Shannon and Patrick detail the latest on the housing bills making their way through the House and Senate, provide an update on the growing Congressional Real Estate Caucus and preview what's ahead for the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. Plus they discuss NAR's role in America's 250th birthday celebration and what it means for the history of housing.

In this episode, Shannon and Patrick break down the key policy and market dynamics shaping Commercial real estate today. From tax policy to insurance, to construction and energy costs, to rent control measures, NAR advocacy is working on dozens of federal, state and local actions that impact how CRE is transacted. Whether you're in brokerage, development or investment, this episode connects the dots between market forces and the advocacy efforts shaping the future of commercial real estate.

A once-in-a-generation housing bill is on the move in Congress that would address housing supply and affordability. Shannon McGahn and Patrick Newton break down what happens next, what could stall it and what it all means for the future of homebuyers and REALTORS®. Plus, April marks Fair Housing Month and the 58th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. They highlight NAR's ongoing work and commitment to expand housing access, as well as the resources available to all members.

The House just passed a major bipartisan housing bill aimed at tackling affordability and supply. After years of groundwork and relationship building, NAR helped lay the foundation for this moment, proving once again that advocacy is a long game. In a special episode recorded live at the President's Circle conference in Las Vegas, Shannon and Patrick explore what the bill actually does and whether it marks the beginning of a broader bet on housing in Washington.

Advocacy Scoop Exclusive! Recorded live at the Advocacy Week Conference, this episode unveils new results from an NAR-commissioned national poll of voters. Among the findings: housing affordability is a top voting issue, belief in the American Dream remains strong, and voters across party lines want Congress to act. Shannon and Patrick delve into the data - and why it matters on Capitol Hill right now - and discuss how REALTORS® can turn voter sentiment into bipartisan action.

It's a new year and the Advocacy team is ready to go! In this episode, Shannon and Patrick outline the advocacy portion of NAR's new Strategic Plan and discuss our policy goals for 2026, which include unleashing housing inventory, confronting NIMBYism and the growing equity gap, and protecting access to homeownership and REALTOR (R) representation. Building on our 2025 wins, Shannon shares what it will take - from a legislative and grassroots perspective - to increase housing supply and affordability and ensure homeownership is attainable for more Americans.

NAR is one of the most effective advocacy organizations in the country, and 2025 was no exception! From Congress to the White House to state capitols and the courts, NAR Advocacy was everywhere. In this episode, Shannon and Patrick do a deep-dive on the legislation, regulations and rulings that impacted housing supply and affordability, property rights and fair housing and REALTORS'(R) ability to run their businesses.