Housing is more than a market transaction – it’s the foundation of strong, stable, and thriving communities. In Snohomish County, rapid population growth, shifting economic conditions, and evolving state mandates have created an increasingly complex housing landscape. Amid these changes, REALTORS® have emerged as some of the most engaged and informed advocates for policies that protect opportunity, promote affordability, and support the long-term health of the region. Their work extends far beyond assisting individuals with buying and selling homes; it directly influences public policy, strengthens community understanding, and reinforces the ethical standards that guide housing decisions.
At the heart of REALTOR® advocacy is a commitment to expanding housing opportunities for all residents. Because REALTORS® work with families every day, they understand the real challenges behind the statistics – first-time buyers competing for limited inventory, seniors hoping to age in place, renters searching for pathways to ownership, and young professionals priced out of the communities where they grew up. Combined with professional training and ongoing education, these experiences give REALTORS® a grounded perspective they bring to legislative discussions and conversations with local leaders.
This advocacy has become increasingly essential as Snohomish County continues to grow. With more residents arriving each year, the region must make thoughtful choices about where and how homes are built. REALTORS® have taken on a central role in promoting balanced, sustainable growth that aligns with state housing requirements while reflecting local values. Their support for zoning reforms that allow greater housing diversity, as well as their encouragement of streamlined permitting to reduce costly delays, reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that housing policies are clear, predictable, and efficient. These efforts help maintain a responsive market and support communities in welcoming new residents without compromising their character or quality of life.
Education is another cornerstone of REALTOR® influence. Housing policy is complex, and misunderstandings can spread quickly. REALTORS® work to bridge this knowledge gap by helping the public interpret new laws, understand market trends, and navigate the financial and legal processes inherent in real estate transactions. This commitment to education extends to elected officials as well. Through testimony, data sharing, and consistent communication, REALTORS® provide policymakers with essential insights about market conditions and community impacts. In doing so, they ensure that decisions are informed by both economic realities and the lived experiences of residents. Their educational role strengthens civic engagement and fosters more informed, productive conversations about housing.
Underlying all of these efforts is a deep commitment to ethical practice. REALTORS® adhere to a strict Code of Ethics requiring honesty, fairness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to consumer protection. This ethical foundation carries directly into their advocacy. For REALTORS®, advocating for housing is not simply about increasing supply or removing barriers—it is about ensuring that policies support residents of all backgrounds, safeguard property rights, and uphold every individual’s right to fair treatment. This code of ethics guides both their day-to-day work with clients and their broader engagement in shaping public policy.
As Snohomish County continues to grow and evolve, REALTORS® remain dedicated to helping guide that process with integrity, expertise, and community-centered leadership. They understand that effective housing solutions must be rooted in practicality and fairness. By advocating for thoughtful policy, educating the public and policymakers, and upholding the highest ethical standards, REALTORS® continue to work toward the best possible outcomes for homeowners, buyers, sellers, and the community as a whole.
For more information about buying or selling a home, be sure to work with a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Snohomish County Camano Association of REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Snohomish County. If you have questions for The Expert about real estate email us at [email protected], or by visiting www.sccar.org for more information.
