Understanding the Impact of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act on Housing Policy

On July 11, 2026, the largest housing bill in decades became law — and REALTORS made it happen.

21 Months in the Making

This victory didn't happen overnight. For 21 months, NAR and REALTORS across every state ran a sustained lobbying campaign to push housing to the top of the national agenda. That meant numerous meetings with lawmakers and congressional staff, original research, and deep coalition building.

The result: a bipartisan package that passed with overwhelming support and addresses the housing shortage through nearly 50 individual measures. In an era when few bills of this size get off the ground, let alone pass with votes from both sides of the aisle, that is a remarkable achievement.

What the Law Does

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is not a single fix. It is a collection of nearly 50 housing measures designed to work together — expanding supply, cutting red tape, and making ownership more reachable for everyday Americans.

More supply and better affordability mean more inventory at prices more Americans can actually afford. That translates directly into more transactions and more opportunities for buyers to unlock the American dream of homeownership.

The Work Doesn't Stop Here

Even as this landmark package advanced through Congress, NAR was already pressing for what comes next. NAR President Kevin Brown testified before the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, making the case that affordability and supply require continued bipartisan action.

One key priority: updating the tax exclusion on the sale of a primary home. As it stands, middle-income Americans and seniors are often penalized for the home equity they've built over a lifetime. That needs to change.

REALTORS helped get this bill over the finish line. Now the focus turns to what's next.

Source: National Association of REALTORS®