Advocacy
GRAR advocates on a grass-roots hometown level on behalf of our members and all property owners to foster a sound and dynamic local real estate market that creates a vibrant community in which we live and work.
The Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS® renews its pledge to help our families, friends and neighbors pursue the American Dream of home ownership, and we will fight against obstacles that make it more difficult for every member of our community to buy, own and invest in real estate.
GRAR has a strong advocacy group, an annual lobby day trip and a local legislative liaison program. We also have strong industry partner relationships that enhance our advocacy, community building and economic development efforts (Home Builders, Mortgage Bankers, Downtown Development Corp, NYSCAR, WCR, Rochester Design Center, Landmark Society, Greater Rochester Enterprise, etc.)
Local, State and Federal Issues
Facebook "Town Hall" Tool
The Facebook “Town Hall” tool helps you locate and connect with your elected officials.
How to get started:
- Desktop users should go to http://facebook.com/townhall
- App users should go to the “Town Hall” tab
You can now follow, message, and call your representatives right from Facebook.
Monroe County Vacant & Abandoned Property Task Force
GRAR is proud to be involved with the Monroe County Vacant & Abandoned Property Task Force. This Task Force is an effort by a broad range of organizations, hoping that by combining our efforts we can implement solutions to prevent homes from becoming vacant, quickly deal with the ones that do, and rehabilitate the homes that have deteriorated. Our CEO, Jim Yockel, is an active member of the Task Force, along with our partners at the Rochester Home Builders and Mortgage Bankers Associations. Click here to see the full report of the Task Force, or visit the task force website for more information.
If you would like to get involved, or have comments, concerns or suggestions about the process, please reach out to the Task Force at mcvacanttaskforce@gmail.com.
Local Government
Are You Involved In Local Government?
The GRAR Industry Advocacy Committee is asking all Members who hold any type of local governmental office or position (Or are considering running for elected office) to please let us know! As part of our grassroots level relationship building effort, we would like to be able to share information of any issues/concerns relating to home ownership and the real estate industry with the aim of advancing support on County and State levels. Please contact Karen Herbst at 585-341-2123 and let her know what position you hold in which municipality. Your response is greatly appreciated!
If you are aware of a new law, ordinance or resolution being proposed in your local municipality that may be a hindrance on real property owners’ rights or impede your ability to represent your clients in a real estate transaction, please contact GRAR and together we will make sure the REALTOR® Voice is heard!
Links to Government Resources
Local Governments
Monroe County
City of Rochester
Ontario County
Livingston County
Wayne County
Orleans County
Genesee County
Wyoming County
Allegany County
Steuben County
State Government
Learn more from the following links:
- NYS State Officials
- NYS Senate
- NYS Assembly
- NYS Website
- NYS Department of State (DOS)
- NYS Departments & Agencies
- NYS Board of Elections
Read information on current State Issues
Federal Government
Learn more from the following links:
- White House
- Senate
- House of Representatives
- Democratic National Committee
- Republican National Committee
- Thomas – The Library of Congress
- Search PAC contributions to Federal Candidates
Read information on current Federal Issues
Make Your Voice Heard
Register To Vote
One of the most important ways to further the REALTOR® agenda is to vote. Are you registered to vote? If not, it’s easy to do so*. Click here to begin the process.
To find your polling place, voter registration info and elected officials:
Calls for Action
When Congress is considering legislation that affects the real estate industry, NAR calls on its members to act. Simply by contacting your Member of Congress through an e-mail or a phone call, you can ensure that your business remains strong. NAR members join together and speak with one loud, powerful voice.
Coalitions & Advocacy Partners
GRAR believes that partnerships are important in building a better real estate community.
That’s why we are actively engaged in partnerships and coalitions that allow us to be the Voice of Real Estate in our region.
