When Dues Fund Discrimination: American Property Owners Alliance & Article 10

Distraction: American Property Owners Alliance is separate from NAR — it’s not RPAC.

Fact: American Property Owners Alliance is funded 100% by NAR dues, run from NAR’s D.C. building, and led by NAR insiders. It funnels millions into conservative causes that attack DEI, reproductive rights, and equity — in direct violation of Article 10 of the Code of Ethics.


The Excuse We’re Given

When REALTORS® ask about the American Property Owners Alliance (APOA), they’re told it’s “separate.” That’s supposed to shut down concern: Don’t worry, it’s not really us.

But here’s the truth: APOA is NAR. And what it funds is a direct betrayal of our values.

The Spending Trail

According to investigative reporting, APOA has funneled nearly $10 million into groups aligned with partisan agendas — almost entirely conservative:

  • Groups working to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
  • Anti-abortion organizations pushing to restrict bodily autonomy.
  • Think tanks opposing racial equity initiatives.

These issues have nothing to do with housing — and everything to do with undermining equal opportunity.

The Code We Swore To Uphold

Article 10 of the Code of Ethics is crystal clear: REALTORS® must not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We are called to a higher standard than ordinary commerce.

When our dues fund groups that actively work against those principles, it isn’t just bad optics. It’s a violation of the very Code that defines our profession.

Why This Matters

NAR can’t wave the “separate entity” excuse while APOA uses our dues to bankroll causes that harm marginalized communities. Members are told money goes to protect property rights — but instead it’s being weaponized against fairness, inclusion, and equality.

The Call to Action

  • Demand transparency: Where every dollar goes must be public.
  • Stop the shell game: If it’s funded by REALTOR® dues, it must meet REALTOR® ethical standards.
  • Enforce Article 10 everywhere: Endorsements, donations, and grants must all reflect our Code of Ethics.

Bottom Line

APOA is not separate. It’s a shadow arm of NAR — and its spending choices violate the very Code REALTORS® pledge to uphold. Recognition of diversity rings hollow if our money is being used to fight it.