HCAR Public Policy Statement

The Howard County Association of REALTORS® (HCAR) believes in advancing Howard County’s real estate industry by shaping public policy on real property issues; and encouraging, promoting, and teaching consistent standards for ethical practice and professionalism for our REALTOR® members. We are Howard County's "Voice" and leading advocate for homeownership, the real estate industry, and those issues that most affect the Association's members while enhancing the REALTOR® image in the profession and within our community.

 

PROPERTY RIGHTS

Private Property Rights

• The protection of private property rights is the cornerstone of the real estate industry, and HCAR supports initiatives that are designed to protect these rights. HCAR opposes any legislation and regulatory efforts to unnecessarily hinder these rights.

Zoning and Growth Management

• HCAR supports zoning that promotes the highest and best uses of land.
• Evaluate the implementation of County environmental zoning codes and their effect on the real estate industry.
• Encourage and support planning efforts that encourage smart growth.

Land Development

• Evaluate for action the impact of governmental policies, actions and/or regulations that affect the development of private property with regard to:
• Redevelopment and infill, Permit fees and/or Systems Development Charges.
• Adequate public facilities ordinances and fees.
• Inclusionary zoning, infrastructure, permit processing and time frames.
• Taxes or assessments related to changes in land Supporting Urban Renewal when appropriate.

Transportation

• The Association will promote and support appropriate means of multi-modal transportation in the County including but not limited to: highways and streets, bike/pedestrian pathways, mass transit, and bridges and thoroughfares.

 

COMMUNITY

Local and State Governments

• HCAR will monitor and influence governmental decisions at all appropriate levels to have a positive impact on the real estate industry.
• Familiarize local and state public officials and employees about HCAR positions and policies.
• Support the desired objective of creating more equitable, affordable homeownership opportunities.
• Support timely investigation and evaluation of funding mechanisms to pay for comprehensive planning of increased housing supply for rentals and homeownership.

Coalitions

• The Association will work with other organizations within Howard County when common ground exists to Advocate for equitable homeownership.
• Ensure and maintain an adequate inventory of housing units.
• Promote affordable homeownership.
• Promote and protect private property rights.
• Protect Realtors®’ ability to conduct business.
• Encourage outreach to underrepresented members of the Association, including but not limited to people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with disabilities.
• Encourage partnerships with minority supportive housing organizations.
• Support cost-effective approaches toward preventing and ending homelessness. This includes modifications of zoning and land-use regulations to accommodate appropriate housing options, shelters, and services specifically for the unhoused populations within Howard County.

Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

• REALTORS® and consumers depend on strong fair housing laws and practices in the community. The Fair Housing Act was designed to root out unfair practices that close the door to homeownership for qualified buyers. HCAR believes that all individuals should have the ability to attain homeownership. HCAR supports initiatives, legislation, and policies that eliminate unwarranted regulatory barriers that prevent the ability to build affordable housing units. Additionally, we support adequate funds made available through local, state, and federal grant programs to assist “missing-middle” and low-income individuals in obtaining homeownership.

Economics

• HCAR will promote financial literacy for all members of the community.
• HCAR will monitor issues affecting the availability and cost of housing, such as:
• System Development Charges.
• Utility regulation/deregulation.
• Alternative energy sources.
• Green Building requirements/regulations/opportunities; Those promoting a strong & sustainable regional economy.

Affordability

• The cost and availability of homeownership are directly related to the supply and accessibility of financing. HCAR supports legislation and programs that assist in removing financial barriers to property ownership. HCAR also supports the ability of property owners to maintain their investments in the most affordable and appropriate way possible.

Property Taxes and Impact Fees

• The Association will evaluate and promote alternatives to:
• Legislation that creates inequitable taxes.
• Niche taxation/fees, as they pertain to the real estate industry. HCAR opposes any increase in property taxes through an increase in the millage rate or impact fees that would adversely affect homeowners.

 

ASSOCIATION RELATIONS

Member Education

• HCAR is committed to expanding membership knowledge of the Association’s government affairs by way of member orientation, newsletters, Calls for Action, encouraging participation in Lobby Day, and educational programs/meetings.

Promote REALTOR® Involvement

• The Association encourages Realtor® involvement in all governmental affairs that affect the real estate industry. Members are encouraged to participate.

REALTOR® Champions

• HCAR will recruit, support, and advocate for “REALTOR® Champions” who are advocates for a successful real estate industry that is conducive to a high quality of life, as well as economic stability and growth. They know that if REALTORS® are successful, a community is successful, and vice versa.

Business Issues

• The Association will Protect REALTORS®’ ability to do business by opposing unnecessary business taxes and protecting REALTORS® from unnecessary government regulation.