Guest Speaker: Suzanne Whitaker, Government Affairs & Public Relations Director, NOMAR
In a time when policy shifts, insurance costs, and local zoning challenges threaten the everyday work of real estate professionals, NOMAR’s Suzanne Whitaker dropped by KW New Orleans to break down exactly how government affairs protects our businesses and our clients—and why getting involved is more critical than ever.
What Suzanne Does—and Why It Matters
Suzanne represents NOMAR (New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS®) across 10 parishes, acting as a liaison to city councils, mayors, parish presidents, and legislators at the state and national levels. Her role bridges the gap between real estate professionals and the decision-makers who shape our operating environment.
From testifying in Baton Rouge during legislative sessions to meeting with national leaders like Rep. Steve Scalise and Rep. Troy Carter in Washington, D.C., Suzanne ensures that our voices are heard—especially on issues that affect our ability to do business.
How the Political Ecosystem Works
To help us understand how REALTOR® advocacy flows, Suzanne gave a helpful breakdown:
- NOMAR: Local organization covering 10 parishes.
- LR (Louisiana REALTORS®): The state-level body NOMAR rolls up to.
- NAR (National Association of REALTORS®): The national trade organization.
- LARPAC: The political action committee (PAC) that pools advocacy funds, with contributions split between local, state, and national efforts.
Importantly, LARPAC funds directly support advocacy on issues like housing policy, permitting, infrastructure, and more. “We keep one-third locally,” Suzanne said, “to fight the fights right here at home.”
What’s Being Worked On Right Now
Insurance Reform
Louisiana’s latest legislative session was fiscal in nature, so major overhauls weren’t expected. However, Suzanne highlighted one significant win: the repeal of the “three-year rule,” which previously made our state unattractive to insurers. Removing it could help invite more competition, which is the only long-term path to lower premiums.
Legislative Tracking
Agents were encouraged to visit the Louisiana REALTORS® website to track bills, understand PAC contributions, and see how decisions are being made.
Mayoral Town Hall — August 4
NOMAR is hosting a mayoral candidate forum at UNO, focused solely on real estate and construction issues. Candidates will be grilled on:
Short-Term Rental policy
- Insurance affordability
- The broken permitting and inspection process
NOMAR’s stance? Suzanne says they’re deliberate and strategic. “We have to be able to work with whoever’s in office. That means our policy moves quietly—but effectively.”
The Economic Impact of Real Estate
NOMAR research shows a single home sale injects over $85,000 into Louisiana’s economy. Real estate makes up 33% of the state’s economic activity, supporting jobs in moving, renovation, finance, furnishings, and more. It’s a staggering number—and a strong case for continued advocacy.
Pocket Listings & Industry Disruption
Suzanne also addressed national trends, including firms like Compass publicly defying NAR’s rules on cooperation and buyer representation agreements. While outside NOMAR’s enforcement scope, Suzanne emphasized that clear cooperation rules still apply—and that member reports of violations are taken seriously.
Local Challenges: IZDs, Permits, and Policy Whiplash
One major pain point raised was how frequently city officials change zoning rules, especially through Interim Zoning Districts (IZDs), without long-term planning. This instability chases away major developers and undermines efforts to create lasting, livable neighborhoods. Suzanne acknowledged this frustration and noted it would be included in NOMAR’s policy dialogue with candidates and city leaders.
Get Involved
Suzanne encouraged agents to join NOMAR’s Government Affairs Committee to become better informed and more influential. “If you’ve got a concern or idea, bring it to me,” she said. “We don’t post everything on the website—but we get things done behind the scenes.”
Final Thought:
If you’ve ever asked yourself what NOMAR or LARPAC really does for you—this session was your answer. From defending your business interests to fighting for housing affordability and regulatory reform, Suzanne Whitaker and her team are the front line.
Don’t sit on the sidelines. Whether it’s attending a town hall, contributing to LARPAC, or simply staying informed—your engagement shapes the future of real estate in Louisiana.