RPAC

Increase housing supply by incentivizing local zoning reforms.
There is a critical lack of housing supply across Michigan. We need to incentivize local zoning changes through appropriations and complimentary legislation to encourage changes to local zoning that prevent housing development. Reforms that should be considered are reductions in lots and home sizes, smaller set back requirements, eliminate height restrictions, and by-right development, among others.

Protecting the independent contractor status of Realtors®. – OPPOSE HB 4390

Becoming a Realtor® is an attractive occupation for many that want to build their own business and reputation, set their own hours, and not be tied to an office. The independent contractor relationship between a broker and an agent is specifically recognized by the IRS and state statute and should be recognized as an exception to the proposed “ABC Test.”

Increase splits allowed under the Michigan Land Division Act.

We can promote density by providing the opportunity to create more lots by increasing the current 4 divisions per first 10 acres, to 20. In addition, we can allow municipalities to approve further divisions to lower the cost of development.

Require 1 hour of fair housing continuing education per year for real estate licensees.

Real estate licensees should continue to lead on fair housing. Michigan needs to establish a 1-hour annual fair housing education requirement for all licensees, within the current 18 hours of continuing education.

End predatory right-to-sell agreements.

We need to protect the public by ending the current practice of providing cash up front to a homeowner in exchange for the ability to list their home, often resulting in an unexpected 40-year lien on the property.

Promote the use of post-closing occupancy agreements.

Competitive real estate markets often create situations where a seller is not able to immediately move into their new home. We should protect buyers and sellers by clearly defining the contractual relationship where a seller occupies the property post-closing. This unique contractual arrangement needs to be defined and encouraged under state law.

Creation of a state-wide septic code.

Protecting Michigan’s water and private property rights can be accomplished together. We need to end the patchwork quilt of regulation that has allowed septic pollution in Michigan’s water by creating uniformity in the definition of inspections, timing of inspections, classification of failure, and allowance for alternative systems. Phasing out punitive time of sale of transfer mandates and allowing for better land use and more housing availability.

Regulation of short-term rentals.

Short-term rentals are part of Michigan’s housing ecosystem and a generations-long tradition. Any regulation of short-term rentals at the state level should start with amending the Zoning Enabling Act to protect a homeowner’s ability to rent. Regulation of nuisances, registration, and inspections should be preserved and done through local housing codes.