With Property Manager’s Day just around the corner on September 23, IREM leaders were eager to speak to congressional staff recently on the current opportunities and
challenges facing the industry during IREM’s annual Congressional Briefing. Staff from over 60 different congressional offices attended the event held on September 15, looking for insights from managers in both commercial and residential management.
IREM members Shira Ali, CPM®, ARM®, Toni R. Harris, CPM®, ARM®, and Jason Hughes, CPM® provided their expertise on important issues property managers face every day and the legislative strategies that can help address them.
Shira discussed how our nation is facing unprecedented residential housing challenges. Between 2023 and 2024, homelessness in the U.S. increased by 18%, with approximately 770,000 people experiencing homelessness during this period, according to HUD’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR), Part 1. When it comes to tackling these challenges, lawmakers need to understand that property managers are on the frontlines of housing, which gives them a unique perspective and role in developing solutions.
Toni elaborated on housing supply challenges, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the problem, as well as the potential opportunities that could arise from the situation. This includes opportunities for more landlord participation in programs, community partnerships that improve tenant stability and reduce turnover, additional financial tools such as deposit insurance and rental assistance, and federal incentives for commercial-to-residential conversions.
Jason touched on commercial property management, the role of managers, and how factors such as tariffs and sustainability are shaping the future of commercial real estate. He added that commercial management faces its own unique challenges, with 20%, or approximately 1 billion square feet, of office space currently being vacant.
Ted Thurn, IREM’s Senior Director, Government Affairs, spoke on three pieces of federal legislation that IREM is currently supporting. This includes the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, the Respect State Housing Laws Act, and the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act. Read our factsheet to learn more about this legislation.
After a successful briefing, IREM representatives met with the offices of Congressman Tracy Mann and Eric Sorensen, both members of the House Real Estate Caucus. Discussion centered around supporting the legislation mentioned during the briefing and how IREM can assist with getting these bills across the finish line.
As IREM continues to advocate for the industry, members can do their part by participating in a call to action in recognition of National Property Manager’s Day on September 23! Property Manager’s Day is a relatively new observance intended to honor and appreciate the work of property managers.
Starting on September 23, members can visit IREM’s Advocacy Action Center where a call-to-action link will be available. The link will connect members to their federal legislators so that they can help promote the hard work, dedication, and impact that property managers have on the real estate industry and their communities.
