Andrea Brandt

At my Realtor class yesterday, I was surprised to hear that homeowners have to rely on Realtor and Realtor associations to represent them and give them a voice when it comes to government issues and legislation. As a newer homeowner, it hadn't occured to me that there really is no homeowner association that can represent my best interests and protect them in our government. So associations like the Michigan Association of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors, do all of the lobbying on behalf of homeowners, looking out for their best interests.

As a Realtor, I was so glad to hear that we can help homeowners in such a profound way. Our associations have stopped, or helped stop many legislative acts that could have been terrible for homeowners, especially here in Michigan. I know a lot of people who think badly of Realtors, because of bad experiences, or because of stigmas relating Realtors to "worse than used-car salesmen". If there's one thing I wish these people could see, it's that a lot of Realtors are honest, intelligent, hard-working professionals, who go out of their way to protrect homeowners best interests and rights.

Last night, I was honored to meet with Michigan congressman Joe Knollenburg. I have seen a LOT of negative ads on TV lately about him, and to tell you the truth, I was really thinking of not voting for him. But after meeting with him yesterday, my mind is completely changed. He is fighting constantly for the rights of homeowners and Realtors alike. He understands our communities, and the problems and struggles we face day to day. He is committed to helping families, and communities here in Michigan. Here are just some examples:

a. He is fighting for health coverage for small business owners.

b. He is fighting to protect and maintain consumer choices, competition among mortgage lenders and fair competition by keeping large banking conglomerates out of real estate.

c. He supported efforts to create the first-time homebuyer tax credit available today.

d. He is fighting to protect the mortgage interest deduction for homeowners and second-home purchases.

I will vote for Joe Knollenburg. He IS sincerely interested in the voice of the people and will fight to protect our best interests.

For more info: www.realtorsforjoeknollenburg.com, www.knollenburg.house.gov