On Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., the Iowa City Area Association of REALTORS® hosted a bipartisan Legislative Breakfast.
The event was a great success, bringing together REALTOR® members and local legislators for an informative and engaging discussion. Attendees had the opportunity to hear directly from State Representatives Dave Jacoby, Adam Zabner, and Judd Lawler regarding the past legislative session, upcoming priorities, and key issues surrounding homeownership, community development, and private property rights.
A central focus of the conversation was the growing challenge of affordable housing and the strain it places on first-time homebuyers. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, the average age of a first-time homebuyer is now 38 years old — a striking increase compared to a decade ago. Legislators and REALTORS® alike emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges in order to keep homeownership accessible.
The group also discussed the rollout and success of recent bills, including Iowa’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) law passed earlier this year. This legislation broadens the ability for homeowners to build ADUs, providing more flexible housing options across the state.
The breakfast concluded with an open Q&A, giving ICAAR members the opportunity to connect directly with their legislators, ask questions, and gain valuable insight into the policies shaping both our industry and communities.
We want to sincerely thank all of our members who attended, as well as Representatives Jacoby, Zabner, and Lawler for joining us and sharing their perspectives. Events like these highlight the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and staying informed.