Real Estate Developers Celebrate as House Advances Bill to Classify Agents as Independent Contractors in Capitol Hill Neighborhood

On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Congressional Committee on Education & Workforce advanced a handful of bills out of committee, including the Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act. This bill, which would amend existing law to definitively classify real estate agents as independent contractors, has been met with celebration from developers in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

The bill has been a top priority for developers, who have long pushed for independent contractor status for real estate agents. According to sources close to the industry, developers see this as a win for their bottom line and a way to skirt certain regulations. "We're thrilled that this bill is moving forward," says a spokesperson for a major real estate development firm. "It's about time we have some clarity and consistency in how real estate agents are classified."

However, not everyone is thrilled about the bill's advancement. Some critics argue that this classification will further disenfranchise real estate agents, who often work long hours and struggle to make a living. "This bill is a slap in the face to hardworking real estate agents," says a spokesperson for an advocacy group representing agents. "It's a blatant attempt to strip them of basic employment protections and benefits."

While the bill has faced some opposition, it's expected to pass in the House of Representatives, given the current political climate. Developers in the Capitol Hill neighborhood are already making plans for how they will take advantage of the new classification and what it means for their future projects.