A New Strategy for Local Advocacy

By Katharine Wendt, Director of Political Operations

In the world of government affairs, there is an adage that holds true time and again: “All politics is local.”

This is especially true for the policy priorities of REALTORS®, as local government has the most direct impact on zoning, development and resource allocation, making it a critical driver for affordable and accessible housing solutions. Recognizing this, NC REALTORS® has redesigned how we support local advocacy.

“The program was designed with local association needs in mind,” says Katharine Wendt, NC REALTORS® Director of Political Operations. “Knowledge is the foundation of success, and this team is committed to providing local associations with the resources, tools and content they need to excel in government affairs at the local level.”

The Role of Local Associations

One of the core pillars of this new initiative is an understanding that local associations are the best drivers for advancing housing priorities.

“The ultimate goal is to support local association executives and government affairs committees in bridging the gap between policy change and action,” says Wendt. “We recognize that local associations are uniquely positioned to engage with local policymakers, educate members and the public and mobilize grassroots advocacy. The local advocacy team will be there with the tools they need to accomplish each of those initiatives with ease and help them stay ahead of proposed changes.”

Strengthening Advocacy Efforts

Pam Melton, NC REALTORS® VP of Advocacy, a key leader of this initiative, underscores the importance of this new endeavor. “I am incredibly excited to have a dedicated Local Advocacy team as part of NC REALTORS® Government Affairs staff — a key addition to strengthening advocacy efforts. As with any new program, we are prepared to adapt and evolve to best support the needs of local associations

Melton’s enthusiasm highlights a critical aspect of this initiative: adaptability. This new program is designed to empower REALTORS® by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to engage in the policymaking process at a level that aligns with their comfort and availability.

The team recognizes that REALTOR® members are eager to get involved and serve as the foremost subject matter experts in their field. However, many simply don’t have the time to thoroughly research complex issues or coordinate efforts with their peers. That’s where this new dedicated team steps in.

The initiative is built to support members’ varying needs by handling the heavy lifting behind the scenes. Whether conducting in-depth research, disseminating issue alerts or organizing advocacy efforts, NC REALTORS® wants to ensure that REALTORS® can make a meaningful impact without having to navigate the complexities alone. The program is committed to equipping members with the knowledge and support they need to advocate effectively and drive positive change in their communities.

Removing Barriers to Homeownership

The heart of this program lies in addressing the barriers that prevent individuals from accessing attainable, affordable and sustainable housing across the state. Maurice Brown, NC REALTORS® Local Advocacy Director, shares his perspective on its impact: “This role allows me to further enhance the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people of North Carolina. Seeking solutions that remove the barriers to the American Dream of homeownership is life-changing.”

Brown’s commitment reflects the core purpose of the Local Advocacy program: ensuring that REALTOR® members are ready to advance policies that support, rather than hinder, homeownership. In his new role, he is focused on supporting local association efforts to foster relationships with local decision-makers and helping REALTOR® members engage in meaningful conversations. Brown recognizes that members are the best advocates for housing and can directly influence policies that shape housing markets and access to property ownership. He adds, “In the space of Local Advocacy, impactful conversations are had and fruitful relationships are built. It is a great opportunity to move the needle.”

Understanding the Political Landscape

Effective advocacy requires an in-depth understanding of the political processes and how they can affect real estate and community development. Justin Angell recently joined the NC REALTORS® team as Local Policy Director and echoes Wendt’s comments on knowledge being the key to success. He is eager to share his understanding of the political process and the philosophy behind decision-making to help REALTOR® members become more effective advocates. He adds, “Seeing the profound effect property legislation and policy have on the profession, consumer, economy and political landscape fuels my enthusiasm for the positive outcomes that both the public and industry professionals can achieve to foster prosperity in the market, serve their clientele and uphold the character of North Carolina.”

The new program aims to equip members with a strong understanding of how local government functions and the rules governing property legislation through new local issue summaries, advocacy trainings and personalized talking points. All these resources are available to local associations and individual REALTOR® members at no charge, with the goal of creating a network of local advocates.

Angell adds that he “looks forward to empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to approach housing issues in an informed, assured and results-driven fashion.”

The Power of Passionate Advocacy

The program also reimagines how NC REALTORS® supports REALTOR® members and their  passion for advocacy. Whether it is removing barriers to homeownership, influencing policy changes  or educating communities, REALTORS® engaged in advocacy share a common goal: to create  positive, lasting impacts. Brown’s words perfectly encapsulate this dedication. “REALTOR® members are passionate, and I support that passion.”

As this program continues to take root, its potential for long-term impact becomes increasingly clear. By strengthening the ties between local associations and government decision-makers, the Local  Advocacy initiative lays the foundation for policies that support thriving communities and accessible  homeownership.

In the end, all politics is local, and it is through local action that real, meaningful change happens. By  engaging at the grassroots level, fostering strategic relationships and equipping advocates with the  right tools, NC REALTORS® is poised to support local associations in making a significant difference  in communities across North Carolina.

Want to Get Involved?

We are exploring the development of Regional Advocacy Trainings to provide valuable tools and  resources for local association staff, Legislative Chairs, Legislative Committees or anyone interested  in local advocacy. The goal is to support and empower these key stakeholders in effectively advancing REALTOR® priorities at the local, state and national levels.

We are imagining this as a customizable, interactive workshop covering up to three hours of essential advocacy topics, including:

• Strategies for engaging with local policymakers
• Best practices for mobilizing members around key issues
• Effective communication techniques for legislative outreach
• Navigating local government processes to influence policy
• Building strong advocacy networks within and beyond your association
• How to talk about smart growth with consumers

We’d love your input! What topics would be most beneficial to you and your team? Are there specific  challenges or areas of interest you’d like us to address?

Additionally, we are considering opening this session to multiple local associations across the state to foster collaboration and shared learning.

Email Katharine Wendt at kwendt@ncrealtors.org for more information.