On January 29, 2025, the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors® (NVAR) hosted its annual Realtor® Lobby Day at the State Capitol in Richmond.

The day began with breakfast before participants boarded the bus for Richmond. Upon arrival, the group was greeted by Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears in House Room 3. Lieutenant Governor Sears, a former real estate association executive, spoke from experience, emphasizing the important role Realtors® play in shaping the future of Virginia.

The morning continued with a series of meetings with key policymakers, including Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, Delegate Karen Keys Gamarra, Delegate Vivian Watts, Delegate Josh Thomas, Delegate Marcus Simon, and Delegate Elizabeth Bennett Parker. Each lawmaker shared their views on real estate issues and engaged in discussions with members about legislation that impacts the industry. Realtors® took the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and learn about the legislative priorities of Virginia’s leaders.

After the morning’s sessions, attendees enjoyed lunch, where they heard from lobbying teams representing Virginia Realtors® and Virginia Home Builders.

In the afternoon, the group traveled to the Patrick Henry Building for a series of office meetings. These meetings featured presentations from Secretary of Commerce Caren Merrick, Secretary of Commonwealth Kelly Gee, and Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater. These discussions allowed Realtors® to engage directly with the individuals shaping Virginia’s economic and labor policies, offering another opportunity to advocate for pro-real estate legislation.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s success.  Whether you participated in meetings with lawmakers, heard from key officials, or simply learned how to better advocate for the real estate industry, Realtor® Lobby Day provided a unique opportunity to experience the legislative process first-hand.