Advocating for Housing Equity: A Call to Action for Real Estate Professionals
- elayneharrington
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
This piece was written by DaVan Gassett
As a Black real estate professional, I stand at a powerful intersection. One where expertise meets lived experience, and where business can be a catalyst for justice. Housing has never been just about property. It’s about access, dignity, stability, and legacy. And as real estate professionals, we are uniquely positioned to advocate for housing equity in tangible, everyday ways.
Understanding the Landscape
Historically, housing policies in America from redlining to restrictive covenants have systemically disadvantaged Black communities and other communities of color. These policies didn’t just shape neighborhoods, they shaped opportunity. Today, while some of those overt practices have been outlawed, disparities persist through things like appraisal bias, predatory lending, gentrification without community investment, and unequal access to credit.
Our Role as Advocates
We are not just agents of transactions; we are agents of change.
Here’s how we can use our platform to be advocates for housing equity:
1. Educate and Empower Clients
Whether it’s first-time homebuyers or seasoned investors, we can ensure our clients are armed with knowledge. Hosting homebuyer workshops in underserved communities, translating real estate jargon into accessible language, and helping clients navigate financial assistance programs all contribute to leveling the playing field.
2. Champion Fair Housing Principles
Go beyond compliance—be a watchdog. If you see discriminatory practices, say something. Call it out. Report it. Advocate for implicit bias training within your brokerage or association and be part of creating a culture where fair housing isn’t an afterthought, it’s foundational.
3. Partner with Community Organizations
Collaborate with nonprofits, housing counselors, and legal aid groups working toward affordable housing and anti-displacement initiatives. Supporting local organizations with time, money, or collaboration deepens your impact and strengthens your connection to the communities you serve. Learn how you can get involved with Habitat for Humanity's Real Estate Community Build.
4. Speak Up in Policy Conversations
Real estate professionals have a seat at the table in city planning, zoning boards, and local government discussions. Use that seat to advocate for inclusive development, affordable housing initiatives, and protections for renters and homeowners alike.
5. Mentor the Next Generation
Representation matters. By mentoring young professionals of color entering the industry, we create a pipeline of diverse leaders who will carry the torch for equity forward. Share your knowledge, your network, and your story.
The Personal is Professional
As a Black professional in this industry, I know firsthand the power of home. It’s not just about four walls, it’s about belonging. It’s about reclaiming what was denied to our ancestors and ensuring our children inherit something greater.
This work isn’t easy. It requires courage, conviction, and community. But together, we can reshape the narrative. We can build a market and a movement where everyone has a fair shot at homeownership, generational wealth, and housing justice.
Because equity isn’t a trend, it’s a necessity. And we are the ones we’ve been waiting for.
DaVan (Van) Gassett
REALTOR | REALTIST, SRS, ABR, PSA, C2EX, AHWD
Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati | 2025 President
Are you a realtor looking to make an impact in your community? Check out our Real Estate Community Build. The Real Estate Build brings together businesses and professionals in the real estate industry to construct a Habitat home. Greater Cincinnati area housing institutions and related partners will come together again in June 2025 to sponsor the Habitat Real Estate Build. Are you a member of the real estate industry—realtors, lenders, mortgage brokers, title companies, mortgage lenders, and others— interested in making a difference for a family in your community? For more information email Kerry Hendel at kerry.hendel@habitatcincinnati.org.
