subject: Health Reform: How It Affects Realtors And Real Estate Professionals [print this page] Regardless of where your beliefs fall on the political spectrum or whether or not your senator voted for it, the recent passing of Obama's health care bill was an historic moment that affects millions of people across the nation. REALTOR Magazine responded to recent changes in national healthcare by zeroing in on how the bill will affect Realtors and other small business owners. To quote the article:
"As independent contractors and small business owners, REALTORS(R) know first-hand the rising cost of insurance coverage and the difficulty in obtaining it. In fact, member surveys show that 28% of REALTORS(R) are currently uninsured, with many more underinsured."
As Realtors across the country have different concerns regarding the health care bill, the organization sought out answers to members' questions on both sides of the fence. Instead of choosing a side and pursuing a for or against campaign regarding the bill, the National Association of Realtors worked with the members of Congress to address the needs of all its members, and compiled a list of helpful materials that offer information regarding the effects of the bill for Realtors. The National Association of Realtors also approached Congress to discuss an issue affecting everyone involved in real estate market analysis and realty in general: Real estate taxes could potentially be used as provisions to pay for changes brought on by the bill signed on March 21st, and the National Association of Realtors wanted to ensure that this didn't happen on behalf of its members.
Provided by this article are links to two helpful PDFs from the Government Affairs Division, "Characteristics of Insurance Policies Available in the New Exchange" and "Congressional Budget Office Estimates for H.R. 3590 as Amended by H.R. 4872". Whether you're a self-employed real estate professional or you're simply looking to learn more information on the new health care bill and how it will impact your livelihood, these handouts answer your questions and help put important numbers into perspective.
