Advocacy

Aspire North REALTORS® Leadership Advocates for Homeownership in Washington, D.C.

06.19.2026

By Heather Sauer

Aspire North REALTORS® was proudly represented at the 2026 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Legislative Meetings held June 13–18 in Washington, D.C. by CEO Alan Jeffries, President Doug Swartz, President-Elect Jamie Grace, and Government Affairs Committee Chair Jessica Brutzman. Their participation ensured that Northern Michigan REALTORS® had a voice in national conversations impacting homeowners, property rights, housing affordability, and the future of the real estate industry.

The REALTORS® Legislative Meetings bring together thousands of REALTOR® members from across the country to conduct NAR business, collaborate on policy initiatives, attend educational sessions, and advocate directly with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. This annual event serves as one of the most important opportunities for REALTORS® to influence federal policies affecting real estate and homeownership.

Addressing Critical Housing Issues

Throughout the week, Aspire North's leadership team participated in governance meetings, policy discussions, educational forums, and networking opportunities focused on advancing solutions for some of the nation's most pressing housing challenges. Key advocacy priorities included:

Expanding housing inventory and supply
Reforming tax policies that impact homeownership and housing availability
Protecting professional representation in real estate transactions
Creating new pathways to homeownership for future generations
Promoting policies that strengthen local communities and property rights

These discussions are particularly important as communities across the country, including Northern Michigan, continue to face housing affordability and inventory challenges.

Engaging with Industry Leaders

During the conference, attendees had the opportunity to hear from nationally recognized speakers, industry experts, and NAR leadership. Educational sessions covered emerging trends, advocacy initiatives, technology advancements, artificial intelligence in real estate, fair housing, sustainability, insurance issues, and research shaping future policy decisions.

The team also explored the REALTORS® Trade Expo, where more than 75 exhibitors showcased innovative technology, products, and services designed to help REALTORS® better serve their clients and communities.

Taking Northern Michigan's Voice to Capitol Hill

One of the highlights of the Legislative Meetings is REALTOR® Hill Visits. On June 17, REALTORS® from across the nation met directly with members of Congress and their staff to discuss legislation and public policy priorities impacting the real estate industry. These conversations help lawmakers understand the real-world effects of housing policies on local markets and consumers.

By participating in these meetings, Alan, Doug, Jamie, and Jessica helped ensure that the concerns and opportunities facing Northern Michigan homeowners, property owners, and real estate professionals were represented at the federal level.

Strengthening REALTOR® Advocacy

As the voice for real estate in Northern Michigan, Aspire North REALTORS® remains committed to advocating for policies that support homeownership, protect private property rights, and promote a strong and sustainable housing market. Participation in the NAR Legislative Meetings strengthens the association's ability to bring valuable information, resources, and advocacy efforts back to local members and communities.

We thank Alan Jeffries, Doug Swartz, Jamie Grace, and Jessica Brutzman for representing Aspire North REALTORS® and Northern Michigan on the national stage. Their leadership and commitment to advocacy help ensure that REALTORS® continue to have a strong voice in shaping the future of real estate.

Together, we are advancing homeownership, protecting property rights, and building stronger communities throughout Northern Michigan and across the nation.

Heather Sauer

Heather Sauer is the Human Resource Manager for Aspire North Realtors, bringing a strong background in human resources, leadership, and business strategy. She began her career in retail management while earning her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Northwood University, later transitioning into human resources at Target, where she served as an Executive Team Leader of Human Resources. During this time, she earned her MBA from the Northwood University DeVos Graduate School.

After relocating to Traverse City, Michigan, Heather continued her HR career with a Professional Employer Organization (PEO), managing more than 30 client accounts and partnering closely with leadership teams on employee relations, compliance, and organizational development. In the fall of 2023, she expanded her professional experience into business development and entrepreneurship.

In addition to her role at Aspire North Realtors, Heather is also an independent travel agent, helping individuals, families, and groups plan seamless, memorable travel experiences. Her passion for service, organization, and relationship-building carries through both her HR and travel work.