Austin Realtors® Advocate for Consumers through TREPAC

“We believe everyone should be able to own property, free from burdensome taxes and regulations, in a healthy and sustainable community.”

The Austin Board of Realtors® advocates for consumers through the Texas Realtors® Political Action Committee, known as TREPAC, which creates stronger relationships between Realtors® and legislators, policy experts, and governmental agencies. “ABoR’s advocacy mission is simple: protect our members’ livelihoods and the well-being of their clients, because it’s the right thing to do for our community.”

Texas Urban Realty Owner and Broker Christine Chau is a major investor in TREPAC because she wants to help protect the real estate industry. She also is part of the President’s Circle, a group that supports federal-level candidates and congressional members who have made achievements in advancing the Realtor® public policy agenda.

“The real estate market remains strong because of the relationships we have with decision-makers,” said Chau. “Our investment allows us to be part of the discussion when laws are being crafted.”

She said while they have already accomplished a lot through TREPAC, there is still more work to do. “We’re advocating for affordability, standing up for private property rights, and fighting for fair housing for all.”

Chau said it is important for Realtors® to be involved so they can take a greater role in serving as advocates for their clients, who can face issues on property rights, land use, and business practices. “It’s up to us to be a voice for our clients, and I hope more Realtors® step up to the plate and make their collective voice heard.”

According to its website, ABoR’s advocacy efforts focus on these areas:

“Property Rights: ABoR believes everyone should be able to buy, sell and use property, as protected in the Fifth Amendment in the U.S. Constitution. We think our members’ clients ought to have the freedom to realize the highest and best use of their property, with limited restrictions.

Strategic Land Use: ABoR believes that Austin and Central Texas will continue to thrive if it is strategically and sustainably developed. We speak up for our community and focus on creating the widest distribution of land ownership so that we maintain enough housing to support our growing region.

Business Issues and Practices: ABoR believes that real estate transactions can facilitate and support economic stability through the benefits of homeownership and community investment. We work to prevent burdensome taxes and unnecessary or harmful regulations that infringe on anyone’s ability to conduct business that is good for the community.”

View a promotional video for ABOR’s TREPAC outreach above or at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITzSl63Joa4.