At the Akron Cleveland Association of REALTORS® (ACAR), advocacy remains at the core of our mission. We are actively working across Northeast Ohio to protect private property rights, support homeownership, and promote policies that strengthen our communities. If you hear about a local policy being debated in Cuyahoga County, Portage County, or Summit County, let us know.
Local Policy Watch
Here’s a snapshot of a few local policy issues that ACAR is monitoring:
Hudson
A proposed zoning change (Ordinance 25-43) would restrict townhomes to the Village Core District only, removing them as an allowable use in all other districts. ACAR continues to monitor this issue to ensure diverse housing options remain available.
Twinsburg
City leaders are considering new restrictions on yard signs. Ordinance 58-2025 proposes cutting the allowable display time for yard signs from 120 days to 40 days. The ordinance has been sent to the Planning Commission for review.
Highland Heights
The city passed Ordinance 21-2025, banning short-term rentals in residential districts. The legislation defines short-term rentals as those lasting less than 30 days. ACAR remains engaged on how this impacts property rights and local housing markets.
Statewide Housing Update: Ohio REALTORS® Advocacy in Action
On July 1, 2025, Governor DeWine signed Ohio’s $200 billion budget (House Bill 96), featuring both setbacks and victories for housing:
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Vetoed: REALTOR®-supported property tax reforms (watch for a Call for Action).
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Wins for Housing:
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Expansion of homebuyer and rural housing programs.
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Increased funding for redevelopment and historic tax credits.
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Zoning changes to spur new housing development.
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Ohio REALTORS® played a pivotal role in shaping these outcomes to support homeownership and community development.
Additionally, Ohio REALTORS® are championing House Bill 287, which targets deceptive real estate wholesaling practices. The bill would require wholesalers to disclose their intent to assign contracts, bringing transparency and fairness to the real estate process. A similar bill already passed the Ohio Senate unanimously and now awaits House action.
Stay Engaged
ACAR is committed to keeping you informed and advocating for policies that benefit REALTORS®, homeowners, and communities throughout Northeast Ohio. Watch for future updates as these important issues evolve.
