Regional Real Estate Summit Recap – Market Forecast, Policy Landscape and Local Housing Solutions

The Wisconsin REALTORS® Association Summit held in Waukesha brought together industry professionals, local leaders, and policy experts to address the challenges and opportunities shaping Wisconsin’s real estate market. CARW was proud to participate alongside partners from GMAR, Lakes Area REALTORS®, and others.

Highlights included:

• Market Forecast: Dr. Mark Eppli (UW-Madison, Graaskamp Center) provided a data-rich outlook on the state’s housing market. While home prices remain resilient, sales volumes are still below pre-pandemic averages. Inventory is tight, especially in the Southeast, and interest rates are expected to stay elevated. (slides included)

• Policy + Legal Landscape: Jennifer Lindsley (WRA) shared updates on legal protections for REALTORS®, changes to MLS policies, and ongoing legal actions defending the right to rent and short-term rentals. She also covered WRA’s priorities on property tax reform and business modernization.

• Local Housing Solutions Panel: Moderated by Tom McCormick (EXIT Realty), the panel featured:

  • Mayor David Bogdala, City of Kenosha

  • Dale Shaver, Director of Parks & Land Use, Waukesha County

  • Josh Schoemann, Washington County Executive

  The panelists discussed the need for regional cooperation, zoning flexibility, infrastructure investment, and aligning local policy with housing production goals.

• Advocacy in Action: The REALTORS are actively working to increase housing inventory, modernize real estate practices, improve tax transparency, and block policies that restrict housing access or market activity.