In February, members of the WRA leadership team went to Washington, D.C., to meet with the Wisconsin Congressional delegation on a number of housing-related issues, including fair housing. We emphasized the importance of fair housing as a measure to protect the rights of all people to own, use and transfer private property, and to help ensure an open housing market free from discrimination. 

While racial disparities in homeownership rates are a nationwide concern, they are particularly pronounced in the state of Wisconsin. According to data from a 2019 study by the Wisconsin Policy Forum, the Black-white homeownership gap stood at 30 percentage points nationally but soared to 47 points in Wisconsin. This disparity underscores a stark reality: the homeownership rate for Black households in Wisconsin, at 25%, is significantly lower than the national average of 42%. Similarly, the Hispanic-white homeownership gap in Wisconsin, at 31 percentage points, surpasses the national gap of 25 points.

In light of these disparities, the National Association of REALTORS^® (NAR) has outlined legislative priorities aimed at addressing the root causes of inequity in homeownership rates. Among these priorities is the reauthorization and increase in funding for HUD fair housing enforcement programs. By bolstering these programs, policymakers can enhance their capacity to combat discriminatory practices in the housing market and ensure equal access to housing opportunities for all Americans.

Additionally, NAR advocates for the passage of the Fair and Equal Housing Act (H.R. 4439), which seeks to expand protections under the Fair Housing Act by including sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics. By explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in housing, this act aims to foster inclusive communities and promote fair treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking homeownership opportunities.

During this legislative session, the WRA achieved significant progress at the state level in its efforts to enhance homeownership opportunities for all individuals. Recognizing the fundamental importance of equitable access to housing, the WRA championed several key legislative initiatives aimed at reducing the homeownership gap. Notably, the organization secured a $525 million investment toward the creation of new housing units tailored for low- to moderate-income individuals.

Moreover, the WRA successfully advanced 2023 Assembly Bill 439, designed to address offensive and discriminatory covenants rooted in race and other protected classes, commonly found in deeds and subdivision restrictions. The WRA also ushered through another crucial measure, 2023 Assembly Bill 969, which mandates that counties sell foreclosed properties due to property tax delinquency and return any remaining equity to the former owner. This issue holds particular significance for minority homeowners, given that homeownership constitutes 60% of the net worth of Black homeowners and 58% of the net worth of Hispanic homeowners.

Without the restitution of this home equity, families often face prolonged displacement, grappling with the challenge of securing funds for down payments or security deposits required for alternative housing arrangements.

Moving forward, sustained collaboration between government agencies, advocacy organizations and industry stakeholders will be essential in advancing policies that promote equitable access to housing for all residents of Wisconsin. By centering principles of fairness, inclusivity and opportunity, Wisconsin can pave the way for more housing opportunities for everyone. 

In conclusion, the widening racial disparities in homeownership rates in Wisconsin underscore the need for continued legislative advocacy efforts at both the federal and state levels. By prioritizing fair housing enforcement, expanding legal protections, and investing in new housing opportunities for all, policymakers can begin to dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequities in homeownership. In doing so, Wisconsin can move closer to realizing its vision of a housing market that is truly open, inclusive and accessible to all.

Tom Larson
WRA President & CEO