As a Realtor at a small-town brokerage, I spend every day helping people make some of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the fact that local elections matter—big time—especially for the housing market.
When most people think about politics and real estate, their minds jump to national issues such as interest rates, the economy, or who’s in the white house. But what really moves the needle in towns like ours are the city council, county commission, and mayoral races. These are the folks who decide zoning laws, land use regulations, and development approvals. One vote on the county commission can determine whether a new subdivision gets built or is potentially blocked.
When leaders work across party lines, things get done and projects start to move forward. Builders have clarity, and families feel secure investing in their future. But when local politics becomes a battleground, the market can freeze. I’ve seen buyers back out of deals just because of uncertainty around who’s in charge and what their policies might be.
Take Coffee County, for example. After a change in leadership, the new administration placed a moratorium on development in rural areas, and just like that, the market shifted.
This fall and into next year, as voters across our region head to the polls, I encourage everyone—no matter your party—to think about how your vote affects your neighborhood, your property, and your community’s future. Good governance is one of the best foundations any housing market can have.
Debbie Spurlock is the Managing Broker/Owner at Red Bird Realty in Dickson, Tennessee. With over 26 years of experience in the real estate industry, she brings with her a demonstrated history of working in sales, new home sales, short sales, foreclosures, and single-family homes.
