News releases

AUSTIN, Texas - March 29, 2007 - Tuesday, more than 1,400 Texas REALTORS® from across the state convened at the Capitol for the 2007 Legislative Hill Visits. An opportunity for interaction between Texas REALTORS® and their state lawmakers, much of the discussion centered around improving the state's property appraisal process.

Honoring the contributions Texas REALTORS® have made to the state, the day began with a resolution sponsored by Sen. John J. Carona (R-Dallas) and Rep. Rob Orr (R-Burleson) and passed by all members of both cabinets, declaring March 27, 2007 Texas Realtor Day. The announcement was greeted by thunderous applause from the gallery, which was filled to capacity with Texas REALTORS® participating in the event. From there, Texas REALTORS® met with their local legislators and staff throughout the day to discuss issues important to Texas property owners.

"The primary goal of the Legislative Hill Visits is to meet with state lawmakers and voice our support for legislation aimed at protecting private-property owners and promoting homeownership," said Avis Wukasch, chairman for the Texas Association of REALTORS®. "With nearly 1,500 REALTORS® traveling to Austin from as far as El Paso, this year's Hill Visits demonstrated the true grassroots force of Texas REALTORS®."

A primary issue Texas REALTORS® discussed with their legislators was appraisal reform. Last year, lawmakers made enormous strides in reducing the state's heavy reliance on property taxes to fund public education. REALTORS® applaud legislators for this tax-reform package, but expressed their unyielding support for legislation that further reduces the barriers to homeownership.

About the Texas Association of REALTORS®

The Texas Association of REALTORS® is a not-for-profit professional membership association representing more than 90,000 members statewide who are involved in all aspects of real estate. For more regarding our organization, real estate practitioners should visit TexasRealtors.com and consumers should check out TexasRealEstate.com.