Last night, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed H.R. 1815, known as the VA Home Loan Reform Act, by voice vote. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) expressed strong support for this bipartisan legislation. The bill aims to make permanent a temporary policy by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), allowing veterans to directly compensate their real estate agents, ensuring equal participation in the housing market alongside other homebuyers. Additionally, it introduces a partial claims program to aid veterans who are behind on mortgage payments. The House of Representatives had already passed the bill in May with unanimous voice vote, and it now awaits the president's signature.
"The VA Home Loan Guaranty is a unique government program that allows veterans to purchase a home without a down payment," said Shannon McGahn, NAR executive vice president and chief advocacy officer. "We are grateful to the House of Representatives and the Senate for passing this measure and providing veterans and active-duty service members the same advantages as other buyers in a competitive real estate market. NAR remains committed to protecting the brave men and women who serve this country in the armed forces and ensuring they are given equal opportunities to achieve the American Dream of homeownership."
In 2024, NAR advocated successfully for the VA to temporarily suspend its policy that prevented veterans from compensating professional representation in real estate transactions, offering immediate relief for veteran homebuyers. Since then, NAR has collaborated closely with both VA and Congressional Veterans' Affairs Committees to seek a permanent solution. This outdated rule—though temporarily suspended—has hindered veterans from obtaining real estate representation in transactions involving seller-paid commissions or buyer-agent compensation. H.R. 1815 represents an essential step toward preventing disadvantages for veterans during homebuying processes.
NAR previously sent a letterpdf to House leadership expressing gratitude for scheduling a vote on this bill.
The National Association of Realtors is engaged in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate activities.
