In Sarasota and Manatee, the work of REALTORS® is often associated with listings and home sales. Beyond the transaction, the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) plays a critical role in shaping policy and protecting the foundations of homeownership and quality of life in the community.

Consisting of more than 9,000 REALTORS® and Real Estate Professionals, RASM is an active voice in local, state, and national issues. Areas of focus include housing affordability, land use, education funding, and environmental conservation.

Advocacy That Protects Property and Affordability
RASM regularly engages with local and state leaders to protect property rights, monitor zoning and development regulations, and ensure that policies support homeowners and investors. At the federal level, the association advocates for longstanding tax benefits such as the mortgage interest deduction and property tax deductions. It also supports tools like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to increase housing affordability. 

At the state and local level, RASM has promoted exemptions for seniors on fixed incomes and caps on property tax increases, helping protect long-time residents from being priced out of their homes.

Smart Growth and Affordable Housing
RASM and local REALTORS® consistently advocated for the modernization of the City of Sarasota’s comprehensive land use plan. The updated plan introduced smart growth strategies that promote higher-density housing in the urban core. These changes help reduce sprawl, lower infrastructure costs, and encourage more walkable communities. They also included targeted incentives for affordable housing in appropriate locations.

Even before the recent housing surge, RASM warned about a looming supply crisis, frequently pointing out record low supply levels in the area and imploring local governments to address the issue. In response, the association has championed zoning reform, supported public-private development partnerships, and helped secure funding for below-market housing options. RASM continues to serve on local housing commissions and task forces, pushing for practical and sustainable solutions.

Supporting Schools and the Environment
Local REALTOR® have also been vocal supporters of local education. The association financially backed school referendums in both Sarasota and Manatee counties, which enabled districts to raise teacher salaries and stay competitive. For local REALTORS®, strong schools are seen as essential to strong neighborhoods and long-term property values.

Environmental advocacy is another area of their focus. Each year, RASM supports efforts to secure over a billion dollars in state funding for land conservation, coastal resilience, and water quality improvements. This includes advocating for full funding of infrastructure projects that address flooding and support sustainable growth. Protecting the environment is core to RASM’s values, but protecting your home from the environment is just as important, that is why they were proud to champion the My Safe Florida Home program in Florida, which provided essential funds for homeowners who wish to fortify their home against hurricanes.

Locally, RASM supported the expansion of the Legacy Trail, now one of the region’s most valued recreational amenities. Property values near the trail have risen since the extension opened, reflecting the project’s success and positive impact on quality of life.

Local Investment with Statewide Impact
Much of RASM’s advocacy work is funded through the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC). REALTORS® who contribute $1,000 or more annually, known as Major Investors, help ensure that housing and community priorities are represented in Sarasota, Bradenton, Tallahassee, and Washington.

While your REALTORS® work may often go unnoticed, they continue to influence the policies that shape homes, neighborhoods, and the region’s future long after you close on your dream home. For more information about how your local REALTOR® fights for your rights, click here.