Last week, I had the honor of traveling to Washington, D.C., alongside fellow realtors from across the country to advocate on behalf of Colorado property owners and real estate professionals. As the appointed Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) for Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District, I serve as liaison between our association — local, state, and national — and Rep. Jeff Hurd, R-Colo. This role is more than a title; it is an opportunity to ensure that private property rights and responsible housing policy remain priorities in the federal conversation.

During our time in D.C., I met with Reps. Hurd, Gabe Evans, R-Colo.; and Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo.; to discuss the key issues affecting our clients, our communities, and our industry. Our agenda focused on protecting the Mortgage Interest Deduction, maintaining 1031 Like-Kind Exchanges, and opposing regulations that drive up housing costs and limit access to homeownership.

One of the most important bills we highlighted was the More Homes on the Market Act. This legislation would reduce the capital gains tax burden on sellers, allowing them to keep more of their equity and encouraging the sale of existing homes. It’s a practical way to increase inventory without waiting on new construction—helping to meet buyer demand faster and more affordably.

We also voiced support for the Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act, which would increase the amount that can be withdrawn from IRAs without penalty for a down payment. This bill would ease one of the biggest hurdles for new buyers trying to enter today’s competitive market. Additionally, we discussed the Housing Supply and Affordability Act, which promotes local planning solutions to increase the availability of housing and improve long-term affordability.

Throughout these meetings, we emphasized the importance of protecting private property rights—principles that are foundational to both our Constitution and the economic stability of rural Colorado. Unnecessary taxation and overregulation pose real barriers to generational ownership, and it’s our job to ensure those concerns are clearly heard in the halls of Congress.

I was encouraged by Rep. Hurd’s thoughtful engagement and his commitment to serving rural Colorado with integrity. He understands that decisions made in Washington have direct and lasting impacts on our communities, especially when it comes to housing and land use.

This trip reminded me why advocacy matters. Policy isn’t shaped in isolation — it’s influenced by those who take the time to show up, speak out, and build relationships. I’m proud to represent our district in this capacity and to advocate for the freedoms, opportunities, and responsibilities that come with property ownership.

As I return home, I carry with me a renewed commitment to this work. Federal housing policy will continue to evolve, and I will remain engaged to ensure that the voices of Western Colorado are not only heard, but respected. If you’re a homeowner, a prospective buyer, or someone invested in our communities — your voice matters. Stay informed, stay involved, and know that you have someone in your corner.

Paige Haderlie is a REALTOR® with Property Professionals, the Chair of the Glenwood Springs Association of Realtors  and the Federal Political Coordinator for the National Association of Realtors representing Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District.