On the evening of July 16, 2025, the U.S. Senate passed the VA Home Loan Reform Act (H.R. 1815) with unanimous support, a powerful step toward fairness in homeownership for our veterans. This bipartisan bill ensures that veterans using VA loans can work with a real estate professional of their choice, even in transactions where the seller isn’t offering commission.

That may sound like a small technical fix. It’s not.

Until now, outdated VA policies have made it impossible for veterans to pay for representation in transactions where they're using their well-earned veterans benefit—100% financing on a home loan. That put them at a serious disadvantage in a competitive market. Without the ability to compensate their agent, if needed, many were forced to navigate home buying alone, while other buyers had professionals advocating and negotiating on their behalf.

Veterans deserve a fair shot at homeownership with full representation. This law helps guarantee it.

Steve Reese

This is an issue I’ve been closely involved with as a member of the National Association of REALTORS® Federal Financing and Housing Policy Committee for the past three years. Our committee made it a top priority to work with the VA and both House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees to secure a permanent solution.

Now that both chambers of Congress have passed the bill, it heads to the President’s desk for final approval.

Why It Matters in Shawnee and Central Oklahoma

Shawnee is home to many veterans and active-duty service members, especially with Tinker Air Force Base just down the road. These brave men and women deserve every opportunity to compete fairly when buying a home. This legislation helps guarantee that right.

If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member considering a move, I’d love to connect and walk you through what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and how to move forward with confidence.

🎖️ You’ve served our country. Now let’s serve you in finding the right home where you'll love where you live.