Message from the CEO

When people think of the Wisconsin REALTORS^® Association (WRA), they often think of advocacy, education or legal support. While those are essential parts of our mission, another critical pillar — one that is often behind the scenes — is research. At the WRA, we believe sound public policy must be grounded in facts and data, not emotions or assumptions. That’s why our team continually invests in credible, data-driven research to support legislation, inform local policy, and protect the ability of Wisconsinites to own, buy and sell real estate.

Whether we’re promoting solutions to Wisconsin’s housing shortage, defending against harmful zoning ordinances or fighting for fair housing assessments, our research efforts provide the foundation for the policy initiatives we pursue and protect. In simple terms, good data leads to good decisions.

In today’s fast-changing real estate environment — where public debates are often shaped by headlines, hearsay or emotion — the WRA’s role in producing and commissioning reliable research has never been more important. Over the past decade, we’ve deepened our commitment to conducting research that does more than diagnose problems; it proposes real, workable solutions that policymakers can implement.

We don’t just advocate; we provide solutions. Our research empowers elected officials, business leaders and REALTORS^® to make informed decisions about Wisconsin’s most pressing housing and real estate challenges.

One of the most urgent policy issues facing Wisconsin is our housing supply shortage, particularly for middle-income and 
first-time buyers. In recent years, the WRA has published multiple studies highlighting how restrictive zoning, development delays and excessive fees contribute to a shortage of affordable workforce housing across urban, suburban and rural areas alike. Our work has helped shape recent bipartisan legislation aimed at removing local barriers to new housing development — a major step toward a more sustainable and inclusive housing market.

Local governments hold immense influence over what gets built, where and at what cost. That’s why we’ve commissioned reports that analyze how zoning policies — especially outdated or exclusionary ones — limit housing choice and drive up costs. These findings have informed state-level reform proposals and local planning conversations statewide.

From short-term rentals (STRs) to historic preservation rules to shoreline restrictions, local ordinances can often infringe — intentionally or not — on basic property rights. Through legal analysis and case studies, the WRA’s research has helped define what reasonable regulation looks like and where it crosses the line. Our work has shaped model ordinances, legislative fixes and even provided legal arguments in court cases that reinforce the right to reasonable use of private property.

Beyond policy specifics, the WRA continues to quantify the broader economic role that real estate plays in Wisconsin’s economy — from job creation and tax revenue to household wealth and community development. These numbers remind both policymakers and the public that real estate is not just about transactions; it’s about building communities and driving local economies.

Our latest research project, featured in this issue of the magazine, takes a close look at the economic impact of STRs in three of Wisconsin’s most iconic tourism regions: Door County, Lake Geneva, and Oneida and Vilas counties in the Northwoods. The study — commissioned by the WRA with support from the National Association of REALTORS^® — includes in-depth data on visitor spending, local tax revenue, housing supply and regulatory impacts.

It’s a timely and important topic, as more local governments weigh how to regulate STRs without compromising tourism, property rights or community character. The article explores how the study’s findings can help communities strike that balance — ensuring smart policies that preserve both economic vitality and local control.

While some research on these topics is aimed at the academic community, the WRA tries to be strategic, actionable and aligned with our core mission: to protect property rights, expand housing opportunities, and promote strong, livable communities throughout Wisconsin.

As new challenges emerge — whether they are affordability, inventory or innovation — the WRA will continue to conduct the necessary research to help REALTORS^® lead with knowledge, speak with credibility and provide actionable solutions. Sound research isn’t just necessary for informed public policy — it’s the foundation for protecting the rights and opportunities for every Wisconsin property owner.

Tom Larson
WRA President & CEO