ATLANTA, May 10, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In an election year, rhetoric heats up and many issues come to the foreground; some have even questioned the long-standing value of American homeownership. To ensure that homeownership, housing and real estate issues are a public policy priority in this country, Realtors® from across the country will rally in Washington, D.C. on May 17 to protect the American dream.
"As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, Realtors® want our country's current and future leaders to understand the vital role real estate plays in both the long- and short-term health of this nation," said Bill Boatman, 2012 President of the Georgia Association of REALTORS® (GAR). "That is why we will join forces on May 17 in Washington, D.C. Realtors® believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue the dream of homeownership, and we will fight against obstacles that make it more difficult for people to buy, own and invest in real estate."
The Rally to Protect the American Dream will take place in front of the Washington Monument on the morning of May 17 in Washington, D.C. Members of Congress will join Realtors® as they hear from speakers about how homeownership issues affect individuals, communities, small businesses and the nation. The rally will also highlight the important role housing plays in the economic recovery.
Speakers include National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, and U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson of Georgia. Approximately 10,000 Realtors® are expected to attend the rally. The rally is also part of NAR's Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo taking place in Washington, D.C., May 14-19.
NAR says issues like the mortgage interest deduction, foreclosures and short sales, affordable financing and available credit don't just affect people who own a home – homeownership shapes communities and strengthens the nation's economy. Boatman also points out that housing is a key driver in our national economy. Housing accounts for more than 15 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product and home sales in this country generate more than 2.5 million private-sector jobs in an average year.
"Over the past few years Georgia REALTORS® have seen buyers with good jobs and strong credit histories turned down for loans," said Boatman. "They have also seen hardworking families unable to refinance into a lower monthly mortgage payment and people losing homes to foreclosure because the bank was too slow to process a short sale. These problems are happening in every neighborhood across the country, and Realtors® are more determined than ever to fight against these obstacles and make sure the American Dream of homeownership is protected for current and future generations."
The Georgia Association of REALTORS®, the Voice for Real Estate in GeorgiaTM, is a voluntary professional association of approximately 26,000 licensed real estate brokers and salespersons engaged in all aspects of the real estate business throughout Georgia.
For more information about the Rally to Protect the American Dream, visit www.realtorrally.org.