An estimated 10,000 REALTORs® converged on the grounds of the Washington Monument today to make their voices heard on behalf of home owners, real estate investors, and those who aspire to home ownership.

At the Rally to Protect the American Dream, REALTORS® from every state in the country joined members of Congress to demonstrate their commitment to preserving access to home ownership and robust real estate investment.

“REALTORS® know that home ownership is an investment in our collective futures, and we’re here today to protect the American Dream of home ownership,” said NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® President Moe Veissi. “Home ownership and investment in real estate impacts families, communities, small businesses, and the nation’s economy in a very meaningful way. Today, we’re proud to be showing the country that home ownership matters.”

REALTORS® are asking Congress for better access to affordable financing, reform of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and to preserve the mortgage interest deduction.

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) and Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) addressed the crowd of REALTORS® at the event.

“Stabilizing the housing market remains a central issue for Democrats, who understand we will not have robust economic growth without a vibrant housing market and that access to home ownership remains a critical component of the American Dream,” said Rep. Hoyer.

Sen. Isakson said home ownership is a crucial component of the American Dream. “It is the biggest and most important investment that the average American family makes, and that’s why we should remain focused on the value of the housing market and the important role it plays in our country. It is my hope that this rally encourages Congress and the president to move forward with policies that are supportive of housing, which is vital to job creation and the recovery of our economy.”

The rally was part of NAR’s week-long Midyear Legislative Meetings, during which REALTORS® and guests met with members of Congress, federal regulators, and industry experts to address pressing real estate issues and public policies in support of private property rights, home ownership, and housing issues.

SOURCE: NAR