NAR Commits to Housing Opportunity

Sometimes missing from the affordable housing table, the National Association of Realtors now promises to be absent no more.At its annual convention in New Orleans, the NAR officially launched a Housing Opportunities program that outgoing president Martin Edwards called "a big deal for this organization." Mr. Edwards said few others can bring as much to the affordable housing arena as realty professionals. "It's an area where the Realtor can be extremely effective," he said. "They understand housing and they are local. They are community-based entrepreneurs who make their livings at the corner of 4th and Main." The ambitious program is aimed at equipping the real estate community and others interested in advancing the cause with tools to research successful programs, communicate ideas, and train themselves and others. Another aspect of the effort will be to build national, state, and local coalitions that promote affordable housing at all levels.