Continue efforts to improve the short sales process; monitor implementation of the Home Affordable Foreclosure Avoidance Program (HAFA) that incorporates NAR's suggestions for a uniform process, standard forms, and deadlines; take action to assure that servicers, investors, and second lien holders make the HAFA program a success; and seek an extension to the tax code provision (scheduled to expire at the end of 2012) that provides relief from taxation on certain mortgage debt that is forgiven by a lender.
Commercial Real Estate Lending:
Urge the adoption of federal policies that promote increased lending and access to credit in commercial mortgage markets.
Read NAR's Issue Summary>
Appraisal Issues:
Support efforts to implement enhancements to recent appraisal rules, particularly the Home Valuation Code of Conduct. Support efforts to regulate appraisal management companies at the state level, preferably through FIRREA.
Visit www.realtor.org/hvcc>
National Flood Insurance and Affordable Property Insurance:
Urge Congress to strengthen U.S. policies and programs, including the National Flood Insurance Program, to support nationwide access to affordable property insurance.
Visit NAR's Natural Disaster/Flood Insurance homepage>
Small Business Health Coverage:
Represent the interests of Realtors® and other self‐employed individuals and small employers as Congress continues efforts to increase access to affordable health insurance coverage and control rising health care costs.
Visit www.realtor.org/healthreform
Depreciation - Tenant Improvements:
Press for renewal, extension and a permanent rule that would permit a 15‐year cost recovery period (depreciation) for leasehold improvements. (The prior provision expired on December 31, 2009.)
Read NAR's Issue Summary>
Wetlands/Clean Water Act/Water Issues:
Oppose federal legislation that would delete "navigable" from the definition of waters subject to Clean Water Act wetlands permits and thereby potentially extend the federal government's reach to backyard ponds and roadside ditches.
Read NAR's Issue Summary>
Transportation Reauthorization Funding:
Support transportation reauthorization legislation that provides funding to an array of transportation modes that reflect the needs of all transportation users and emphasizes repair and maintenance over development of new capacity.
Updated April 2010