RASM Members Advocate for Homeownership at 2025 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C.

This week, several members of the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the 2025 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings — one of the most important advocacy events for our profession. Hosted annually by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the event gathers thousands of REALTORS® from across the country to conduct the business of NAR and unite behind a shared mission: advancing the real estate industry through strong, effective policy advocacy.

While in Washington, RASM members had the opportunity to meet with lawmakers, including a visit to the office of Congressman Vern Buchanan. These face-to-face meetings allow REALTORS® to communicate the importance of homeownership, housing affordability, and local economic development. The delegation helped highlight how federal decisions impact the communities we serve every day.

To capture the energy and personal impact of the trip, RASM Vice President of Advocacy and Member Programs, Max Brandow, RCE, spoke with Tony Barrett, 2024 President of RASM, in front of the U.S. Capitol:

Max: "Tell me about your week so far at the 2025 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C."

Tony: "This week has been amazing. We've been here since Saturday and we kicked it off with some great speakers. We learned a lot about the National Association of REALTORS® and the direction they're taking to protect personal property rights."

Max: "Outside of the congressional meetings, what are some of the big takeaways you’ve had this week?"

Tony: "There have been quite a few! One of the biggest is just getting to talk through the bills being passed and understanding why they're doing things. You don’t get that kind of insight unless you're here in person, hearing it firsthand."

Max: "What do you think of NAR so far this week? Are you satisfied with what you’ve seen?"

Tony: "I've been very satisfied. They’ve created a lot of opportunities for us to come together and share ideas. It’s a great way to meet people from all over the country and connect with new referral partners."

Max: "Have you picked up any new ideas this week?"

Tony: "Yes! I took part in a charitable idea exchange with about 50 people. Some were just starting their 501(c)(3)s, and others were well established. I got some great ideas to bring back to RASM—things we can do to raise funds for members in need."

Tony also emphasized the unique value of attending a national event like this:

"The benefit of coming to a national convention is that you get perspectives from all 50 states. That’s an idea from every corner of the country. It’s powerful to gather that information and also share what we’re doing back home. We’re collaborating and making great strides in D.C. for the members of the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee."

👉 Visit the RASM Advocacy Page to learn more about our efforts and how you can get involved.

RASM is proud to stand at the forefront of real estate advocacy. Our members continue to lead with passion and purpose — ensuring that our profession, our communities, and the people we serve have a voice on Capitol Hill.