The 2025 Ohio REALTORS® Winter Conference brought together professionals from across the state for a pivotal Legislative Update held at the Hilton Columbus at Easton. As a focal point of the event, the update session featured presentations from Andrew Huffman, Assistant Vice President of Governmental Affairs, and Veronica Cardello, Assistant Vice President of External Engagement. Their discussion provided an in-depth look into the legislative landscape and the evolving policies that could significantly influence the real estate industry in Ohio.
Key Highlights from the Legislative Update
Huffman and Cardello opened the session by presenting a comprehensive overview of the key legislative priorities for the upcoming year. Chief among these were proposed reforms to property tax laws—a subject that garnered immediate attention due to its potential to affect property valuations and client affordability across the state. They outlined how the proposed changes aim to modernize tax assessments and ensure more equitable tax structures, though not without raising concerns among practitioners about increased client costs and transaction complexities.
Additionally, the discussion turned to zoning regulation reforms, with emphasis on how these updates could stimulate housing development and reduce regulatory bottlenecks. The presenters noted that while the intent is to encourage growth and affordability in Ohio’s housing market, local compliance requirements and shifting municipal attitudes toward density may vary widely—making this a critical area for REALTORS® to monitor and engage in.
Professional Dialogue and Industry Engagement
The session was highly interactive, with REALTORS® voicing both support and concern for various policy proposals. This dialogue underscored the profession’s deep investment in shaping policy that not only supports business but also strengthens communities. Many attendees stressed the importance of active participation in local and state-level policymaking, encouraging their peers to build relationships with legislators and stay updated on key bills affecting their day-to-day operations.
One especially notable moment came during the open forum when a Columbus-area REALTOR® shared a case study on how outdated zoning ordinances had stalled a large-scale residential development—illustrating the real-world consequences of legislative inaction and the need for advocacy-driven change.
A Call to Action for Advocacy
The Legislative Update concluded with a call to action: REALTORS® must remain vigilant, informed, and vocal. As real estate professionals, their unique position allows them to influence public policy in meaningful ways, ensuring laws are crafted with practical insights from the field. Huffman and Cardello emphasized the value of grassroots advocacy, encouraging attendees to participate in legislative visits, contribute to political action committees, and engage through official Ohio REALTORS® channels.
Ultimately, the 2025 Winter Conference reinforced the notion that being an effective REALTOR® today requires more than sales acumen—it demands a commitment to policy literacy and civic involvement. Through ongoing collaboration and advocacy, Ohio REALTORS® aim to shape a more responsive and equitable real estate environment for all.