The Advocacy Corner | January 2026
What Is RPAC (and Why It Matters to You)
RPAC stands for the Realtors® Political Action Committee. In simple terms, RPAC is how Realtors® come together to protect our profession by supporting Realtor® Party Champions (i.e. candidates for elected office who understand housing, property rights and the real-world impact of policy decisions on our industry). Or by funding issues campaigns that will educate the public and elected officials on important issues related to our industry.
RPAC investments helped support the Vibrant Denver bond initiative, ensuring Denver has the necessary infrastructure and community amenities without raising taxes. Without the bond, infrastructure projects and community parks, recreation centers and more would face delays in repairs and improvements. DMAR supports the government’s planning for future growth, which should include a commitment to diverse housing types, quality public facilities and services, a strong employment base and environmental protection. View our policy positions here. When Realtors® invest in RPAC, we’re not supporting political parties; we’re supporting policies and leaders who support homeownership and a healthy housing market.
Advocacy in Action: What DMAR Is Working on Right Now
Your DMAR Government Affairs Committee is already off to a strong start in 2026, actively monitoring and influencing issues across our jurisdiction that directly impact your ability to serve clients. Some of the key issues on our radar include:
- A new construction defect ordinance that will work in tandem with a state law passed in 2025 and apply to unincorporated Douglas County
- Advocacy efforts supporting “missing middle” housing types in multiple cities to expand attainable homeownership options
Leading these efforts in 2026 are:
- DMAR Government Affairs Committee Chair, Amy Cesario
- DMAR Government Affairs Committee Vice Chair, Kelly Metha
Behind the scenes, DMAR’s Government Affairs Director and Committee members are meeting with elected officials, reviewing policy proposals and advocating for solutions that support Realtors® and their clients.
Spotlight on Zoning Code Updates: Lakewood & Denver
Lakewood Zoning Code Reform
DMAR proudly supported Lakewood’s Zoning Code Reform, which allows for missing middle housing types in residential areas. Missing middle housing types are products that add density and are more affordable per unit than single-family homes, such as duplexes, triplexes, and townhomes. DMAR supports adding diverse housing options - especially for-sale, missing middle housing - to help create a functioning housing ladder that allows renters to transition into homeownership. Historically, Lakewood neighborhoods were largely zoned for single-family homes only.
Why does this matter?
- Since 2017, Lakewood’s median home price has increased by more than 50%
- A 2024 Denver Regional Council of Governments Regional Housing Needs Assessment estimates Lakewood needs 968 new homes per year to meet current and future demand
Currently, a group is attempting to repeal the new zoning code, which will be placed on the ballot for voters to decide on April 7th. DMAR supports keeping the new zoning code in place and will continue advocating for solutions that expand housing opportunities. Learn more at Make Lakewood Livable.
Denver: Unlock Housing Choices
DMAR also supports Denver’s Unlock Housing Choices project, which aims to add middle housing options in residential neighborhoods through potential updates in Denver’s zoning code.
Importantly, Realtor® representation matters. DMAR member Angela Hutton-Hall, who also serves on DMAR’s Government Affairs Committee, sits on this committee to ensure the Realtor® perspective is included in these critical conversations.
Get Involved
DMAR Day on the Hill
Want to see advocacy in action and meet the people making decisions that affect your business? DMAR Day on the Hill, coming up on February 11, is almost sold out. Only 15 spots remain to ride the bus from the North Office. This is one of the most impactful ways to understand how advocacy works and why it matters. Reserve your spot here. Interested in sponsoring? Click here.
What to expect:
- Meetings with your legislators at the State Capitol
- A mayoral panel and reception in the afternoon
- Breakfast and lunch are included
RPAC Outreach & How You Can Participate
The Government Affairs Committee has planned an exciting 2026 outreach calendar, including house parties and broker office outreach, designed to help members better understand advocacy and RPAC. The committee is also currently seeking new members who want to play a more active role in shaping housing policy and protecting the real estate industry. Interested in getting involved? Complete the committee form here or contact Lauren Cecil at lcecil@dmarealtors.com. If your office would like to learn more about advocacy and RPAC, Lauren can help with that, too!
RPAC 2026 Dashboard (Year-to-Date)
Participation numbers reflect members who have invested $25 (fair share) or more.
- Raised: $29,776
- Goal: TBD
- Major Investors: 1
- Major Investor Goal: TBD
Thank you to our RPAC investors, Major Investors and Hall of Fame members who make this work possible.
From NAR: Advocacy Beyond Colorado
Advocacy doesn’t stop at the local level. Here’s what’s happening nationally:
Housing Supply, Affordability & Access | What’s Next for 2026
Hear directly from NAR’s Advocacy team about priorities for the year ahead.
White House Focuses on Affordability & Homeownership
An overview of federal efforts aimed at improving access to homeownership.
Why This Matters
Every zoning change, housing policy and regulatory decision affects your clients and your bottom line. RPAC and DMAR’s advocacy efforts ensure Realtors® are not just reacting to change but helping shape it.
This is one of the most valuable benefits of your membership, and it works best when members stay informed, engaged and involved.
