NCJAR News
Housing affordability remains one of the biggest challenges facing buyers, sellers, and REALTORS® across New Jersey and the nation. On June 23rd, National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) President Kevin Brown testified before the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, urging lawmakers to take meaningful action to increase housing supply and improve affordability.
The Challenge
According to NAR, the United States continues to face a significant housing shortage, driving up home prices and making homeownership increasingly difficult for many Americans. Regulatory costs, permitting delays, and limited housing inventory have all contributed to the affordability crisis. NAR highlighted that regulatory requirements can add more than $131,000 to the cost of a newly built home.
What NAR is Advocating For
During his testimony, Brown called on Congress to support policies that:
- Increase housing inventory
- Reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers
- Modernize housing programs
- Expand opportunities for first-time homebuyers
- Encourage local communities to build more housing
- Support innovative housing solutions such as manufactured and modular homes
These recommendations align with bipartisan efforts currently being considered in Washington to address the nation's housing shortage and affordability concerns.
From June 13–18, NCJAR leadership and staff joined thousands of REALTORS® from across the nation in Washington, D.C., for the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2026 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings.
The annual event brings together real estate professionals from every state to engage in policy discussions, governance meetings, educational sessions, and advocacy efforts that help shape the future of the real estate industry. REALTORS® gathered to discuss critical issues impacting property owners, homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals, while reinforcing the importance of protecting private property rights and expanding opportunities for homeownership.
A highlight of the week was REALTORS® meeting directly with members of Congress and their staff on Capitol Hill. These meetings provided an opportunity to advocate for policies that support housing affordability, increase housing supply, strengthen local communities, and promote a healthy real estate market for consumers nationwide.
The New Jersey real estate market has shifted. Homes are still selling, but buyers are more selective, sellers are more price-conscious, and negotiations are becoming a larger part of the transaction.
That's why professional skill development matters more than ever.
In today's market, REALTORS® who can accurately price properties, effectively represent buyers and sellers, and confidently navigate negotiations will be better positioned to serve clients and grow their business.
Professional designations like PSA (Pricing Strategy Advisor), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist), and ABR® (Accredited Buyer's Representative) help agents strengthen these critical skills and demonstrate their commitment to professionalism.
Upcoming Education Opportunity
Join NCJAR 2026 President Carolyn Bardach as she sits down with Marrie-Rose Garbacz, 2026 New Jersey State President of the Women's Council of Realtors®, at the historic Black Horse Tavern & Pub in Mendham, New Jersey. In this engaging conversation, Marrie-Rose shares how the Women's Council of Realtors® (WCR) helped shape her leadership journey, build meaningful professional relationships, and expand her network across the country.
