Real Estate Community Build 2025

Real estate industry professionals know that homeownership matters to individuals, families, and communities. It matters because it provides a foundation for growth for families and children, and it strengthens communities and our economy. This is why we created our annual Real Estate Community Build (RECB).

The Real Estate Community Build brings together businesses and professionals in the real estate industry to construct a Habitat home. Our most recent one occurred in June 2025. A couple months after the last build day, we're reflecting on its success.

"We brought together 125 real estate professionals, including title agents, mortgage brokers, banks, and realtors, to not only raise nearly $40,000, but to show up, get their hands dirty, and make a real impact," says Kerry Hendel, Donor Engagement Manager at Habitat for Humanity Greater Cincinnati. "It was powerful to see an industry rooted in housing come together to help build a home from the ground up."

Participants in the RECB raise crucial funds that help us to grow in our mission. "These dollars will help pour the foundation, literally and figuratively, for someone’s brighter future," says Kerry. After working hard at fundraising, participants then are invited to spend a day on a build site working alongside other volunteers and Habitat staff to actually construct a home. "It was a full-circle show of support that speaks volumes about the heart behind this community. We had over 25 companies and individuals make meaningful contributions towards this affinity build," says Kerry.

The RECB is all about bringing people from a similar industry together. It's amazing to see what can be done in our own backyard when we work together. The impact this initiative extends further than a month, further than a build site. "When you have professionals from every corner of the real estate world coming together for a common cause, it strengthens community ties and creates a shared sense of purpose," says Kerry.

This year reminded Kerry that people are eager to help, they just need the right invitation and a clear way to plug in. "For 2026, I want to bring local homebuilders into the mix to expand both our volunteer base and our donor pool," says Kerry. She has big plans to grow the RECB from a high-energy launch event to establishing a leadership volunteer committee.

"On a personal note," says Kerry, "before my mom passed away, she had spent over 30 years as a real estate agent. She was so proud that I was leading this initiative with Habitat and always lit up when I shared updates about new sponsors that she was personally connected to. I carry her spirit with me through this work."

Habitat is so grateful for all the support we've recieved for the RECB. "And I must give a special thank-you to Debbie Brooks, our Habitat Board VP and owner of Prominent Title Agency. Her vision, energy, and determination were instrumental—Real Estate Community Build truly wouldn’t exist without her," says Kerry.

Kerry Hendel, Donor Engagement Manager

Ready to get involved in the Real Estate Community Build 2026? Reach out to Kerry, kerry.hendel@habitatcincinnati.org and she'd be glad to speak with you!