I shared with many of you that Jim and I are FPC’s (Federal Political Coordinators) for NAR and AAR. While in Washington D.C. this past week we met with several Arizona politicians who, we hope, will be able to assist us in bringing about a change in the way our state, and our industry, have been affected by the REO’s and Short Sales.

Many might say we did a lot of lender “bashing” and complaining about how things are actually happening. Our belief is that what many of the lenders say is happening versus what they are actually doing is quite different. We believe Congress needs to know what we, and our clients, are experiencing.

We have no way of knowing what will happen, but we do know they have heard “the rest of the story”.

Another issue we discussed with them pertains to providing energy efficient buildings or homes. There are talks about possibly offering incentives or tax credits for buildings or homes that meet specified criteria. While we understand that an energy efficient building or house can help our communities, we wanted to voice our concerns. We told them we would oppose energy labeling requirements that might be imposed at the time of sale. If we are not careful we could end up stigmatizing homes that do not meet some of the requirements necessary to receive proposed incentives or possible tax benefits.

Mortgage interest deductions were another major concern. Though there are no proposed changes yet, it has been suggested that perhaps one way to offset costs for health insurance is to change the way we look at and handle mortgage interest deductions. We advised that NAR would oppose any changes to the current law. We believe that the mortgage interest deduction is a remarkably effective tool that facilitates homeownership and community stability.

With reference to the $8,000 Homebuyer Tax Credit we thanked them for making this available. We also asked that Congress extend the timeframe through 2010. It is currently going to expire on November 30, 2009. We also suggested that the tax credit should be opened to all homebuyers at all income levels to stimulate the economy.

Many of my colleagues think the time spent at our midyear meetings is a waste of my time and money. I just can’t agree. As I sit here typing this to share with you, I find myself excited again with the experiences from this past week. It didn’t change anything that day. It may not change anything at all – BUT I care enough to try. Jim and I want to do what we can to at least have our voices heard.

I literally thank God every day that we live in a country that permits freedom of speech. I am thankful that I am able to at least share my thoughts and my beliefs. I fully understand that I will sometimes win, and other times lose, but we are a great country. We will come out of these trying times and ultimately be even better.

I also appreciate being a part of local, state and national associations who spend our dues dollars to help us and our clients. I admire the thousands of REALTOR® volunteers who also care enough to get involved in the committees and efforts needed to bring about change.

Sleep well tonight, your association is working for you.

Marge Lindsay