For many Realtors, it’s all about the Hill

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Sure, the nation’s capital has a seemingly inexhaustible supply of museums and monuments. But it’s the Hill that draws many attendees to the National Association of Realtors’ midyear conference each year. That’s Capitol Hill–a place where decisions are contemplated, made and sometimes changed.

With the weight of more than 1 million Realtors, the association has a loud voice on legislative matters. And when Realtors make their annual pilgrimages to lobby their legislators on the Hill each year, they are determined to be heard.

More than 1,000 Realtors went to the Hill this week to meet with members of Congress out of a total midyear conference crowd of about 7,500 Realtors and guests. A number of conference meetings are related to the association’s legislative lobbying and its internal politics and leadership.

“The highlight is the Hill visits,” Barbara Phaup, a member of the Greater Tyler Association of Realtors who is attending the midyear conference, said.