The path that leads toward making a difference starts with a single decision: to get involved. For some who are called to real estate with a desire to make meaningful change, taking action becomes a relentless drive for resolution. In the second part of our REALTORS® Taking Action series we talked with Franchisee, Kinga Korpacz, of EXIT Realty Redefined in Rolling Meadows, IL who’s one of many real estate professionals confronting a wave of legislative challenges that impact both their businesses and their clients’ futures. She brings a unique perspective to housing policy, because she knows first-hand, the power of the American Dream.
Kinga’s Advocacy at a Glance:
- Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) for Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi
- State Legislative Contact (SLC) to State Representative Diane Blair-Sherlock, District 46
- 2025 President, Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®
- 2025 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Director
- Member of REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) Fundraising Working Group
- One of International Association of Top Professional’s (IAOTP) Top 25 Global Impact Leaders
- Member of 2025 REALTORS® Political Involvement Working Group, Illinois REALTORS® Local Government Independent Expenditures Committee
“Being politically active isn’t optional if we want to protect our profession and serve our clients effectively.”
Q: How did your real estate journey begin?
A: It was born from both necessity and vision raising two young children and navigating a difficult personal chapter. As an immigrant from Poland, I saw the transformative power of homeownership and the security it brings. Real estate felt like a natural path—one where I could build a business by helping others achieve their dreams. When I discovered EXIT Realty, I was immediately drawn to its values of empowerment, collaboration, culture and residual income.
Q: What sparked your interest in housing policy?
A: It wasn’t something I grew up with. Politics was something we stayed away from. I was always curious and that curiosity led me to join my local Government Affairs Committee, where I began asking questions and learning how local decisions were shaping the communities we live and work in. The turning point came during my time in the Illinois REALTORS® Leadership Academy when I was approached about serving as the Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) for Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi.
Q: Why advocacy right now?
A: With the constant introduction of new legislation, changing market conditions, and growing concerns around affordability and access, there’s no better time to be involved. Housing policy affects everything, our economy, education, infrastructure, and quality of life.
Q: Tell us about your leadership roles.
A: I’m currently the Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) to Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, IL-8, as well as the State Legislative Contact (SLC) to State Representative, Diane Blair-Sherlock, District 46 where I liaise, inform and advocate for shared legislative priorities between NAR and the Congressman, and serve as a point of contact between Illinois REALTORS® and the Representative, keeping her informed on state-level issues affecting our profession and clients. I’m the 2025 President for the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®, helping to guide organizational strategy, with a focus on advocacy initiatives and budget planning for programs that elevate our profession. I’m a 2025 NAR Director, part of the Vice Chair of the Illinois REALTORS’® Strategic Planning Committee and a 2025 member of their Local Government Independent Expenditures Committee. I’m also part of the local Government Affairs Committee, which focuses on the critical role of municipal government in housing policy. Each role represents a different level of advocacy…together, they allow me to contribute to a full-spectrum approach in protecting homeowners, supporting REALTORS®, and ensuring our voices are represented at every level of government.
Q: What are some good ways for agents to get involved?
A: My advice to real estate professionals who want to get involved is simple: start small, but stay consistent. You don’t need to know everything on day one. What matters most is showing up and staying engaged. And most importantly, don’t wait to be invited. Advocacy begins the moment you raise your hand and say, “I want to be part of the solution.” Look into:
- Government Affairs Committee meetings are excellent places to learn how policy affects our industry at the municipal level
- Contribute to RPAC, even if it’s a modest amount, to support candidates who protect property rights and homeownership
- Sign up for REALTOR® Party Mobile Alerts to stay informed and ready to act when key legislation is on the line
- Look into development programs offered by your local or state association like the Leadership Academy, which was instrumental in my own journey
Q: What’s ahead for advocacy in your market?
A: We must strike a balance between access, affordability, and sustainability. Zoning and land use reform, property tax structures, and first-time homebuyer incentives are at the top of my list. We’re also closely watching for federal bills that could limit 1031 exchanges or change the tax deductibility of mortgage interest. Local regulations around short-term rentals and rent control are growing concerns as well.
Q: What’s your mantra when it comes to advocacy?
A: If we’re trusted to guide people through their biggest investment, why shouldn’t we also help shape the policies that protect it?
Q: What continues to fuel your passion?
A: Being able to protect my clients, guide them with confidence, and anticipate changes in the market. Knowledge in these capacities makes me a better leader in my office—I can educate my agents and ensure they stay ahead of policy shifts. Ultimately, understanding the “why” behind regulations makes us better advisors, not just better salespeople.
For more real estate news and insights check out the latest Solution edition of The EXIT Achiever Magazine.
