NAR Q2 update details strategic plan progress on lobbying, lawsuits, MLS

Key facts

• The National Association of Realtors (NAR) provided an update on its 2026-2028 strategic plan.
• Key focus areas include lobbying, legal strategy, MLS guidance, technology, and education.
• NAR reported progress on federal housing legislation and support for the MLS system.
• The association has worked to reduce legal uncertainty through a settlement and court dismissals.
• New resources and tools are being deployed to support brokers and enhance member data capabilities.
• NAR is undertaking governance reforms and updating educational offerings.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has issued a second-quarter update on its strategic plan for 2026-2028, detailing advancements in key areas such as lobbying, legal strategy, Multiple Listing Service (MLS) guidance, technology, and education. The plan is designed to protect member businesses and reinforce the value of membership in a rapidly changing market and regulatory landscape.

NAR CEO Nykia Wright stated that the plan is the association's primary mechanism for delivering advocacy, guidance, and tools to help members serve clients and grow their businesses. The update covers seven priority areas, addressing the ongoing impact of commission litigation, scrutiny of MLS practices by the Department of Justice (DOJ), and affordability challenges stemming from high mortgage rates and limited inventory.

In advocacy, NAR reported contributing to significant federal housing legislation through a nationwide campaign and coalition efforts, framing it as a response to supply and affordability issues. The association also provided practical guidance and resources for MLSs and members, and collaborated on letters to the DOJ, Federal Trade Commission, and U.S. Copyright Office to support the MLS system and promote a transparent marketplace.

Regarding litigation, NAR indicated it has reduced legal uncertainty through a strategic settlement in the Tuccori homebuyer commission case and multiple court dismissals of challenges to its membership and MLS structure. The Tuccori settlement, if granted final approval, would offer protection from copycat lawsuits without requiring new business practice changes.

NAR has also increased broker engagement by deploying new resources, business tools, and advocacy forums. Furthermore, the association has delivered new market intelligence tools and strengthened member data capabilities to aid informed business decisions. Governance modernization efforts are ongoing, with strategic committee reforms aimed at creating a more effective system. On the education front, NAR has updated its curriculum and migrated to a new learning management system to provide more accessible professional development.

Looking ahead, NAR plans to continue executing its strategic plan with more role-specific programming, the formal launch of its new learning management system, and an increased commitment to professionalism.