As we celebrate Women in History Month, it's important to recognize not only the trailblazers in the industry, but also the women who have shaped us personally. For many of us, that includes our mothers who have helped us navigate life's challenges and supported us along the way. In the real estate industry, we're seeing more and more mothers helping their children buy their first homes, recognizing the importance of building wealth through homeownership. As someone who was raised by a single mother, I understand firsthand the impact that a supportive and determined woman can have on our lives. Let's take this month to celebrate all the women who have made a difference in our lives and honor their contributions to history.
Dorcas Helpant
Dorcas Helfant is a trailblazer in the real estate industry and is best known for being the first female president of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). She served as the president of the NAR in 1992 and was the second woman to serve on the organization's board of directors.
Helfant began her real estate career in 1973 and quickly became an influential figure in the industry. She served as the president of the Virginia Association of Realtors in 1988 and was also a member of the NAR's Executive Committee and Board of Directors before becoming the organization's president.
During her tenure as the NAR president, Helfant focused on expanding the organization's reach and increasing its political influence. She also advocated for fair housing policies and worked to promote professionalism and ethics in the real estate industry.
Helfant's contributions to the real estate industry have been widely recognized. She has received numerous awards and honors, including being inducted into the National Association of Realtors Hall of Fame in 2000. Helfant's legacy continues to inspire women in the real estate industry to this day.
Abby Hamlin
Abby Hamlin is a prominent real estate developer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder and president of Hamlin Ventures, a real estate development firm based in New York City. Hamlin has been involved in some of the most significant real estate projects in the city, including the development of the New York Mercantile Exchange Building and the New York Times Building. Hamlin started her career in the real estate industry in the 1970s as a salesperson for a real estate brokerage firm. She quickly moved up the ranks and became a partner in the firm before starting her own company, Hamlin Ventures, in 1982. Throughout her career, Hamlin has been recognized for her innovative approach to real estate development. She is known for her commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly building practices and was one of the first developers in New York City to incorporate green technologies into her projects. Hamlin has also been a vocal advocate for women in the real estate industry. She has been involved in several organizations that promote women's leadership and has served as a mentor to many women in the industry. In addition to her work in real estate development, Hamlin is also a philanthropist and has been involved in several charitable organizations. She has been recognized for her contributions to the arts and education and has served on the boards of several cultural institutions and universities.
Barbara Corcoran
Barbara Corcoran is a real estate mogul, investor, and television personality who has had a magical journey in the real estate industry. She is best known as one of the "sharks" on the hit television show Shark Tank, where she invests in and mentors entrepreneurs.
Corcoran started her career in the 1970s as a real estate agent in New York City. She quickly became one of the city's most successful agents, known for her innovative marketing techniques and her ability to match people with their dream homes.
In 1978, Corcoran co-founded The Corcoran Group, a real estate brokerage firm that grew to become one of the largest and most successful firms in New York City. Under her leadership, the company became known for its celebrity clients, high-end properties, and innovative marketing campaigns.
In 2001, Corcoran sold The Corcoran Group for $66 million and went on to become a successful investor and television personality. She has invested in dozens of companies through Shark Tank and has become a beloved figure on the show for her sharp wit, tough love, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Throughout her career, Corcoran has been a champion of women in the real estate industry. She has mentored many women and has been a vocal advocate for gender equality and diversity in the workplace.
Corcoran's magical journey in the real estate industry is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, innovative thinking, and commitment to excellence. She has inspired many people to pursue their dreams and has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Carol and Amy Bayer
Carol and Amy Bayer are the owners of PorchLight Real Estate Group, a successful real estate brokerage firm based in Denver, Colorado. Their journey in the real estate industry began in 2005 when Carol, who had a background in marketing and communications, decided to pursue a career in real estate. Amy, who had a background in graphic design and marketing, soon followed her sister's lead.
They started their real estate careers by working for other Brokers but soon realized that they could offer a better experience to clients by starting their own company. In 2009, they founded Porch Light Real Estate Group with the goal of providing a more personalized and client-focused approach to real estate.
One of the key factors that set PorchLight apart from other real estate companies was their commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. As members of the LGBTQ+ community, Carol and Amy wanted to create a company that would welcome and celebrate people of all backgrounds and identities. They also wanted to create a company culture that valued work-life balance and gave employees the flexibility to work from home or adjust their schedules as needed.
Their approach was a hit with clients and employees alike, and Porch Light quickly became one of the top real estate companies in the Denver area. Today, the company has more than 100 agents and staff and has expanded into Boulder, Longmont and other cities in Colorado.
Carol and Amy's success as entrepreneurs and advocates for inclusion has earned them numerous accolades over the years, including recognition as one of Denver Business Journal's Outstanding Women in Business and a spot on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America.
Their story is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and a commitment to creating a better world through business.