Press Releases

Washington, DC – Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) has spearheaded a letter as a Co-chair of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), urging a critical review and revision of its current policies regarding the use of VA loans for veterans employing buyer brokers during real estate transactions.

The letter highlights concerns around veterans' access to buyer brokers following the landmark Kansas City settlement.This restriction could place veterans at a disadvantage in competitive housing markets, potentially limiting their ability to purchase homes.

Key Points from the Letter:

• Veteran Support in Real Estate: The letter advocates for policy changes to allow veterans to use their VA loans to retain buyer brokers.

• Policy Review Request: The Congressional Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs are requesting the VA to reassess its policy on barring fees or commissions, questioning whether the existing rules may inadvertently place veterans in less favorable purchasing positions.

• Impact on Veterans: We are seeking clarification on the legal and financial implications for veterans who wish to use part of their VA loan to cover the costs of employing an agent or broker.

Congressman Alford issued the following statement:

"We must ensure that our veterans have access to all necessary resources to make informed decisions in the real estate market. The current VA loan policies will hinder their ability to compete fairly and must be revisited. Our veterans deserve the right to secure the best possible representation during such significant transactions."

Congressman Mann issued the following statement:

“Our support for our nation’s veterans and service members cannot stop when they take off their uniforms,” said Rep. Mann. “For 80 years, the VA’s Home Loan Guaranty Program has helped position these brave men and women to provide homes for their families and build equity for future generations. Failing to match the VA’s policies with the modern-day industry standards would only handcuff veterans in an already extremely challenging housing market. We must ensure that America’s heroes have access to the same flexibilities as other buyers. I’m hopeful that the VA will swiftly correct this simple flaw.”

Congressman Correa issued the following statement:

“Those who’ve offered to make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom deserve the ability to be homeowners and continue on their journey to achieve the American Dream,” Correa, a Co-Chair of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, said “The VA’s loan policies play a critical role in making that dream a reality for our veterans, and it’s past time that they’re revisited, and we allow veterans the flexibility they need during the incredibly complex, and increasingly competitive, home-buying process.”

The National Association of Realtors issued the following statement:

“The National Association of Realtors® extends our sincere gratitude to the Real Estate Caucus’ Co-Chairs, Representatives Mark Alford, Luis Correa, Tracey Mann, and Brittany Pettersen, as well as Representatives Aaron Bean, Brian Fitzpatrick, Juan Ciscomani, Monica De La Cruz, Wiley Nickel, Derrick Van Orden, and Andy Ogles, for fighting for our nation's veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Home Loan Guaranty Program represents our county’s commitment to those who have served. It is imperative that we ensure veterans retain the freedom to choose and have the ability to compensate for representation in their home-buying journey. We look forward to continuing to work alongside Congress to ensure veterans are given the same and equal opportunity to achieve the American Dream of homeownership.”

Media inquiries for Rep. Alford should be directed to Peter Minetos at Peter.Minetos@mail.house.gov.