Midyear at the Statehouse: What REALTORS® Should Know
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Director of Advocacy & Research
As lawmakers head into summer recess, the first half of 2026 has already brought significant activity at the Ohio Statehouse.
The 136th Ohio General Assembly is now entering its final stretch, with lawmakers scheduled to return after the November election.
More than 1,500 bills have been introduced so far this session. Ohio REALTORS® is monitoring more than 150 of them with a familiar but urgent set of priorities in mind: expanding homeownership, protecting private property rights, strengthening consumer protections, and making sure the voice of real estate professionals is heard by their elected officials.
Property Taxes
Property tax relief remains a top issue before lawmakers, and Ohio REALTORS® has continued to advocate for practical reforms that provide relief while keeping communities funded. Last year, those efforts helped lead to sweeping property tax reforms that are expected to save Ohioans more than $3 billion over the next 3 years.
This year, Ohio REALTORS® kept that momentum, testifying in support of House Bill 504, which would allow large property tax increases to be phased in rather than applied all at once. This approach would help homeowners better plan for increases and avoid sudden financial strain.
Ohio REALTORS® also supported Senate Bill 42, which would allow communities to establish Residential Stability Zones. These zones would give eligible homeowners a targeted way to manage property tax increases tied to changes in their home’s assessed value.
Before they broke for summer recess, lawmakers also approved a one-time $350 million Property Tax Relief Fund. Beginning in 2027, the fund is expected to assist approximately 710,000 Homestead Exemption recipients, with qualifying seniors and homeowners with disabilities potentially receiving nearly $500 in relief.
Consumer Protection
Several consumer-focused measures have moved forward this year as well.
Ohio’s new real estate wholesaling requirements officially took effect this spring. The law was championed by Ohio REALTORS® and now requires wholesalers to provide homeowners with disclosures before entering into a contract. These disclosures explain the wholesaling process, the homeowner’s rights, and the potential risks involved.
The Homebuyer Protection Act also took effect, requiring home sellers to sign a disclosure outlining state and federal fair housing laws. This added step helps ensure consumers understand their rights and responsibilities during the transaction.
Ohio REALTORS® also led the effort to introduce House Bill 749, which aims to combat deed fraud and title theft. The bill would allow property owners to place a freeze on their deed through the county auditor’s office and would require real estate licensees to receive training on deed fraud prevention and best practices.
Lastly, Ohio REALTORS® testified in support of maintaining home inspector licensing requirements through House Bill 59. The current standards help protect consumers and preserve confidence in the transaction process.
Housing Affordability
Housing affordability remains a major challenge in Ohio, and limited housing supply continues to put pressure on buyers and communities. When fewer homes are available, prices rise and the path to homeownership becomes more difficult, particularly for first-time buyers and working families.
To help address this issue, Ohio REALTORS® testified in support of House Bill 765, legislation that would improve Ohio’s Single-Family Housing Tax Credit Program. The program was designed to encourage new single-family housing development, but technical issues have limited its use. HB 765 would make the program easier to use and more effective in encouraging new housing investment.
Member Advocacy
Policy work is most effective when lawmakers hear directly from the people who understand how these decisions affect Ohio communities!
That is why during the first half of 2026, RELTOR® members participated in events including Great Lakes Caucus visits in Washington, D.C., REALTORS® at the Rotunda, Candidate Training Academy, and the National Association of REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. These events gave members the opportunity to speak with elected officials and engage directly in the legislative process.
Lame Duck Forecast
With lawmakers in recess, attention now turns to the November 3rd General Election. This year’s election will be especially significant, with all five statewide executive offices open due to term limits, along with important Statehouse and Congressional races.
After the election, lawmakers will return for lame duck session, a fast-moving period when legislators work to pass bills before the end of the year.
The issues we will work on during this time are complex, but the mission is clear: REALTORS® need a strong voice at every level of government to shape the future for homeownership in Ohio.
Anastasia Kotkovskaya
Director, Advocacy & Research
Supports Ohio REALTORS®’ legislative, regulatory, and political initiatives at the Ohio Statehouse, conducting public policy research, collaborating with stakeholders, and developing advocacy resources to keep members informed of advocacy efforts. She provides regular legislative updates through Capitol Connections and The Latest Political Buzz, and hosts the Policy Talks podcast to provide insights on key political developments. She also serves as the staff liaison for the Political Advocacy Fund Committee.
Learn more about Anastasia & her role.
