What Is the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act?

After nearly two years of advocacy led by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), Congress has passed and the President has signed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act into law. The legislation is one of the most comprehensive federal housing packages in decades, combining nearly 50 bipartisan measures designed to address the nation's housing shortage and make homeownership more attainable.

Rather than focusing on one solution, the law tackles several interconnected housing issues, including increasing the supply of homes, improving affordability, expanding financing opportunities, and strengthening housing programs for veterans.

What It Means for the Average Person

For most Americans, the law is intended to make buying and owning a home easier over time. While the changes won't be immediate, the legislation lays the groundwork for long-term improvements in the housing market.

Some of the expected impacts include:

• More homes being built. By reducing barriers to development, streamlining permitting, encouraging modular and manufactured housing, and supporting local planning efforts, communities may see more housing options become available.
• Improved affordability. Increasing the housing supply can help ease upward pressure on home prices and rents over time.
• Better access to mortgages. The legislation encourages lenders to offer more small-dollar mortgages and expand lending opportunities for first-time buyers and underserved communities.
• More financing for affordable housing. Additional investment tools and financing options are intended to help developers build more affordable homes.
• Expanded support for veterans. Veterans will receive improved access to VA home loan information, stronger housing assistance programs, and better tools for comparing mortgage options.

Why This Matters

Housing affordability has become one of the country's biggest economic challenges. Many communities simply do not have enough homes to meet demand, making it harder for first-time buyers, young families, and workforce employees to purchase homes.

This legislation recognizes that no single policy can solve the problem. Instead, it addresses multiple factors contributing to the housing shortage—from construction and financing to homeownership assistance and veteran benefits.

Why REALTORS® Are Highlighting This

NAR views the law as the result of nearly two years of coordinated advocacy involving thousands of REALTORS® across the country. Members met with lawmakers, testified before Congress, participated in grassroots advocacy campaigns, and worked alongside bipartisan leaders to keep housing at the forefront of the national conversation.

For REALTORS®, the passage of the law demonstrates how sustained advocacy can influence national housing policy and support efforts to create healthier, more accessible housing markets.

Bottom Line

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is designed to help address America's housing shortage by encouraging the construction of more homes, expanding access to financing, improving opportunities for homeownership, and strengthening support for veterans. While homeowners and buyers are unlikely to see overnight changes, the law aims to create a more affordable and accessible housing market over the coming years through a broad, long-term approach.