National News
NAR Commends White House Extension of Forbearance and Foreclosure Protections – Biden administration announces moves to protect homeowners impacted by COVID-19
National Association of Realtors® President Charlie Oppler issued the following statement after the Biden administration announced last week that it would extend the foreclosure moratorium for homeowners through June 30, 2021, and extend the mortgage payment forbearance enrollment window until June 30, 2021 for requesting borrowers. “NAR commends the Biden administration’s efforts to protect housing for millions of vulnerable Americans as this pandemic endures,” said Oppler, a Realtor® from Franklin Lakes, N.J., and the CEO of Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International. “This decision not only provides security of shelter to those at risk of foreclosure, but also offers critical stability in the broader U.S. housing market. We look forward to working with the White House as these efforts continue and as the nation emerges from the grip of COVID-19 with vaccination efforts underway.” Read full story
State News
Ohio REALTORS® voice strong support for First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act
Ohio REALTORS® testified before the Ohio Senate Ways & Means Committee to urge passage of Senate Bill 24, the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Act. Ohio REALTORS® President Seth Task and Michelle Billings, chair of the Legislative Steering Committee, each shared their professional expertise and compelling arguments for the creation of First Time Homebuyer Savings Account in Ohio.
“Ohio REALTORS® strongly supports SB 24 as we believe this savings tool will help Ohioans who are interested in owning a home someday realize the American Dream,” Task testified. “Although this savings program will not reduce all barriers to homeownership, it is certainly a tool that will help hard-working Ohioans move closer to their goal. We believe Senate Bill 24 is a reasonable approach to the home-buying process for first-time buyers. Senate Bill 24 would promote financial literacy through saving over the course of several years to achieve the American Dream of homeownership. A person is rewarded for their long-term commitment to save for a home with a small tax benefit that would add up over the years.”
SB 24, introduced by Sen. Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green) and Sen. Bob Peterson (R-Washington Court House), would authorize a first-time homebuyer to open a tax-deductible savings account in which a person can deposit money with the goal of using it toward a down payment of a home purchased in Ohio. Read full story
Local News
Just when you thought you could take a breather from elections after the tumultuous year that was 2020, we’re here to remind you that there are no off years when it comes to elections! As you know, REALTORS® can play a big role in the democratic process through RPAC and Issues Mobilization efforts. With that in mind, check out this article from DDN on ballot issues in the upcoming May election, highlighting the many school levies and city/township tax issues: Read full story
