William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

Top 10 Queer Friendly Real Estate Agents

William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

Top 10 Queer Friendly Real Estate Agents

Living in a digital era comes with many changes, be it in our personal lives, jobs and even at home. Life a decade ago is very different from life today.

Digitization has affected so many fields including real estate. Today, more homebuyers and property sellers are now turning to the internet to access the real estate services that they require.

Queer-friendly real estate icon

Within the real estate industry, different groups and communities can access specialized services that meet their needs. For example, military families can reach out to a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and buyers and sellers over the age of 50 can reach out to a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES).

For people in the LGBTQIA+ community, the property acquisition process has not always been a smooth ride due to factors like discrimination, lack of legal protection and negative social stigma.

These social factors have made it difficult for gay people and same sex couples to acquire property and secure stable housing. However, the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality is slowly but surely overcoming these challenges.

Key Points
  • Digitization in today's world has affected the real estate industry and how services are offered
  • History of the property acquisition process among members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the U.S. and how discrimination and bias played a big part
  • Promoting inclusivity and diversity helps to create a more equitable and inclusive society, where all people are able to access housing that meets their needs
  • NAGLREP is a professional trade organization that acts as a bridge between the real estate industry and the LGBTQIA+ community
  • You should consider hiring an Gay/ Queer-friendly real estate agent for reasons such as cultural competence and an inclusive customer journey
  • Top 10 gay/ queer-friendly real estate agents that you should consider hiring when looking to buy or sell a home/ property
Disclaimer

The contents of this article are for educational purposes only. They are not intended to be a source of professional financial advice. You will find experts on financial planning and financial management here. More on disclaimers here.

History of the Property Acquisition Process for Members of the LGBTQIA+ Community

LGBTQIA+ friendly crowd

The history of LGBTQIA+ individuals acquiring property and real estate in the U.S. has been marked by both challenges and progress. For much of American history, the LGBTQIA+ community faced discrimination and legal barriers that made it difficult for them to own property and build families.

Before the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City, homosexuality was considered a mental illness and was criminalized in many states. This created a hostile environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and many faced employment discrimination, harassment, and eviction from their homes.

In the decades following Stonewall, the LGBTQIA+ community made significant gains in the fight for legal recognition and equal rights. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, cities across the country passed anti-discrimination laws that protected LGBTQIA+ individuals in housing, employment, and other areas.

However, even with these legal protections in place, many individuals who identify as gay still face discrimination and bias when trying to buy or rent property. In recent years, there have been some efforts to address this, including the creation of LGBTQIA+ friendly housing developments, and the development of real estate organizations and networks focused on supporting and serving the LGBTQIA+ community.

Although many strides have been made towards LGBTQIA+ rights and equality, discrimination and bias still persist in various forms. That is why it's important for LGBTQIA+ individuals to work with gay/ queer-friendly real estate agents and companies who understand and support their unique needs and experiences.

Why Does Inclusivity & Diversity Matter In Real Estate?

inclusive multicolored human bond

For members in the LGBTQIA+ community, working with a gay/ queer friendly real estate agent can be really helpful as it can enhance the quality of the buying or selling experience.

Diversity and inclusion in real estate matter for the following reasons:

Fair Housing

Promoting inclusivity and diversity helps ensure that all individuals, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community, have equal access to housing opportunities and are protected from discrimination.

Improved Quality of Life

A more inclusive and diverse real estate market can lead to better representation and support for the LGBTQIA+ community, improving their quality of life.

Increased Market Opportunities

The LGBTQIA+ community is a significant and growing market segment, and promoting inclusivity and diversity can lead to new business opportunities.

Better Understanding

A diverse real estate workforce can bring a better understanding of the needs and perspectives of the LGBTQIA+ community, thus leading to improved services and outcomes.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Inclusivity and diversity, including for the LGBTQIA+ community, are often required by laws and regulations, and non-compliance can result in legal consequences.

Reputation Enhancement

Real estate companies that prioritize inclusivity and diversity, including for the LGBTQIA+ community, can enhance their reputation and attract top talent.

Support for the Community

Promoting inclusivity and diversity in real estate can show support for the LGBTQIA+ community and help to reduce stigma and discrimination.

Showing sensitivity to the specific needs and concerns of gay clients can also help build trust and establish a positive working relationship.

The Role of NAGLREP in Real Estate

NAGLREP logo

NAGLREP, which stands for The National Association of Gay & Lesbian Real Estate Professionals, is a professional trade organization that promotes fair and equal treatment of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the real estate industry. The body basically acts as a bridge between the real estate industry and the LGBTQIA+ community.

In its 11 years of existence, NAGLREP has grown to more than 2,000 members with 25 chapters, and is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ trade organizations in the U.S.

NAGLREP works to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals and families have access to housing that meets their needs and to support LGBTQIA+ real estate professionals in their careers. It is reported that LGBTQIA+ community has a growing impact on the housing market and represents almost $1 trillion in annual buying power. The organization provides resources, education, and networking opportunities to its members and advocates for policies and practices that promote inclusivity and diversity in the real estate industry.

Through its efforts, NAGLREP works to create a more equitable and inclusive housing market for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Why You Should Consider Hiring a Gay/Queer Friendly Real Estate Agent

When looking to buy or sell your home/ property, these are the reasons why you should consider hiring a gay/ queer friendly real estate agent.

A queer-friendly person

Understanding

A gay/ queer friendly realtor may have a better understanding of the specific needs and concerns of people in the LGBTQIA+ community and can provide a more welcoming and inclusive experience.

Gay and queer friendly real estate agents usually have extensive knowledge of the different neighborhoods. They would be best placed to advise on areas that are safe for their queer clients and have a low crime rate, as people in the LGBTQIA+ community tend to be more cautious when looking for their new home due to safety reasons.

Cultural Competence

A queer realtor may have knowledge of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and families in the housing market and can help navigate any potential issues.

They usually have done a deep dive on different neighborhoods and can advise gay people and their families on things like the best and most welcoming public schools to take their kids, queer friendly shops, bars and restaurants.

Gay and queer friendly real estate agents can also share with you LGBTQIA+ owned businesses and service providers that you can support.

Personal Connection

Hiring a queer realtor can help establish a personal connection and sense of trust, which can be especially important for LGBTQIA+ individuals and families who may have experienced discrimination in the past.

When it comes to the home buying / selling process, closing a deal on the property is usually just the first step. Before moving into/ selling a house, you may want to do some renovations and change it up. This means that you will need to hire different service providers to get the jobs done, e.g. a plumber, landscaper, contractor and locksmith.

A gay / queer friendly real estate agent is likely to have a list of trustworthy service providers that they've worked with and would recommend. Since your home is your personal space, you wouldn't want to have to hire or work with unprofessional workers who can discriminate against you based on your identity, for safety and privacy reasons.

Networks

A gay/ queer realtor may have connections within the LGBTQIA+ community and can provide valuable insights and resources. They are more likely to have a list of homes and properties that are available in queer-friendly areas and can help you find your dream home.

These realtors usually have information on queer-friendly areas and may even know of specific neighborhoods that are referred to as gayborhoods or gay villages which are even more ideal for those looking to live in or near LGBTQIA+ friendly areas.

Customer Journey

A gay realtor/ real estate agent LGBT realtors strive to make sure you feel respected and understood throughout your home buying journey because that’s exactly what they hope to find in their clients as well. They will help you find precisely what you want and set you up somewhere that not only feels safe – but is actually safe!

If you're a member of the LGBT community and are looking for a qualified and excellent real estate agent to work with, here are top 10 agents that you should consider working with for a positive and equitable experience in search for your next home!

Top 10 Gay/Queer Friendly Real Estate Agents

1. Ila Corcoran

Ila Corcoran

Ila Corcoran is an experienced and friendly real estate agent who serves as the SVP, Real Estate Operations at Bay Street Capital Holdings. Bay Street Capital Holdings is a top Black owned investment, advisory and wealth management firm.

She got into real estate after her family experienced foreclosure. As a result of this, she opted to become an investment advisor who focused on real estate transactions, in order to secure housing and develop career capital that would propel her into the opportunities systematically unavailable to her community.

Earlier in her career, she started out as a property manager among a team of 4 others managing more than 300 units across southern California. At the same time, she managed to obtain her Real Estate License, a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from California State University Long Beach, and a minor in both Business and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

Ila discovered her passion in the residential industry, as the ability to help others create security through housing and homeownership keeps her motivated. For 2 years, Ila worked closely with diverse homeowners and real estate professionals helping them maximize their investments and avoid the threats of discount buyers and/or foreclosure. In 2021 alone, she led a team to close more than $80m in transaction volume across numerous states, with a laser focus on value-add services for the American homeowner.

During her free time, she enjoys serving apartment communities across Los Angeles, and in the non-profit housing space dedicated to solving housing insecurity.

She is now taking new clients in 2023 who are interested in working on their real estate needs and or financial goals. She is of the belief that financial and housing security is a right that all people deserve. To get in touch with Ila, contact her here.

2. Blair Myers

Blair Myers

Based in Central Georgia, Blair Myers is a real estate broker whose unique approach to work is centered around being customer centric, having a high sense of self awareness and taking a humanistic approach to both normal life and business.

Raised by her father who served in the military and mother a registered nurse and being married to a former Marine, her experience being part of a military family has given her a unique perspective and insights in working with military families.

Blair closes 400+ transactions a year as a Realtor, is also a new construction builder, financier for builders and developers, and a land developer herself. In Middle Georgia, she is your go to real estate broker.

She has been recognized as the Associate Broker, #1 Agent In GA in Closed Transactions at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers.

3. David Dorman

David Dorman

David Dorman is a licensed realtor who helps property buyers and sellers relocate or move out of the Orlando area to their next destination. To ensure that his clients have access to the latest marketing technology that reaches a global audience, he has invested heavily into his business.

In addition to being a proficient realtor, David is also an active community member.

Over the last 10 years, He has been named as one of the top 100 Realtors in Orlando and has also been recognized in Orlando Magazine as one of Real Estates Hot 100.

4. Herman Chan

Herman Chan

Herman Chan is a trilingual (English, French, and Chinese) charismatic real estate agent who combines both traditional and modern digital marketing strategies to provide the best results for his clients.

As a Mass Communications major from UC Berkeley, Herman has a track record of success where he not only helps his clients meet their goals, but also exceed them.

He is also an author, speaker and TV personality who is sought after from time to time to provide key insight into the real estate market and beyond for television and news outlets. He has been featured on popular publications such as Huffington Post, CBS, CNN, Money USA, Today US News among others.

5. Hubert Tate

Hubert Tate

Hubert Tate is a real estate professional based in Atlanta with Keller Williams Realty and also Hubert Tate & Co.

Hubert worked in the communications industry for 10+ years as a TV news reporter/anchor, press secretary, and spokesperson before transitioning into real estate. He continues to apply the same discipline and grit to serve his clients and deliver exceptional results for them.

His company Hubert Tate & Co is on a mission to serve humankind through the prized possession and rewards of owning real estate. They apply integrity, dignity and trust when working with their new and repeat clients.

6. Paul Bryant

Paul Bryant

Paul Bryant is a leading real estate sales associate at Christie's International Real Estate. For 15 years, his priority has been to help his clients find beautiful and compatible homes that improve the quality of their lives.

As a New Jersey native, he specializes in Hudson and Essex counties and the experience and relationships that he's built over time allow him to have an upper hand in the competitive market.

As a leading real estate professional with vast marketing and technology experience, Paul partners with Christie's International Real Estate where he offers his clients an efficient international distribution platform that highlights every home in the catalog on a global scale.

7. Roman Novian

Roman Novian

Roman Novian is the #1 residential agent at Coldwell Banker Jim Stewart, Realtors. With 10+ years experience in the real estate industry, he has been recognized among the top 1% of Coldwell Banker agents Internationally.

He specializes in investments, selling, staging and working with first time home buyers and among the areas that he's served include Eddy, Hewitt, Waco and Woodway.

8. Sacha Blanchet

Sacha Blanchet

Originally from Quebec City, Canada, Sacha Blanchet has lived in the US for 17+ years, and he continues to establish his place in the real estate industry over the last 10+ years.

Sacha is based in Arizona and his focus is on being a keen listener and working diligently so as to make his clients feel comfortable and at ease. He attributes his success to his sharp focus, self drive and ability to create lifetime bonds.

9. Shirley Gary

Shirley Gary

With 20+ years in real estate and new construction sales management throughout metro Atlanta, Shirley started her company About Sales Inc. in 2008. At this time, the real estate market was low but she managed to grow the company to an almost $120 million company by 2013.

In 2013, Engel & Völkers approached Gary to bring the luxury real estate brand to the Atlanta market. In June 2014, About Sales partnered with Engel & Völkers North America to form Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta.

In 2017, Gary opened a second location; Engel & Volkers Atlanta North Fulton. Engel & Völkers Buckhead Atlanta and Atlanta North Fulton closed 740 units, and their overall 2017 sales results topped $260 million.

Engel & Völkers has named Gary its No. 1 advisor in the world for the number of units closed for the past five years.

10. Susan Rose

Susan Rose

Susan Rose is a licensed real estate agent who is based in Ohio and Kentucky. She currently serves as the Executive Sales Vice President at Sibcy Cline Realtors.

She has been working in the real estate industry for 30+ years and has the skills and expertise to help clients navigate the current real estate market.

Conclusion

Working with a gay/ queer-friendly real estate agent can be important for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community because it can help ensure that you feel comfortable and understood during the process of buying or selling property.

A gay/ Queer-friendly agent can also provide their clients with LGBTQIA+-specific resources and support, and help address any potential discrimination or bias you may encounter. By working with a queer-friendly real estate agent, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community can have a positive and empowering experience during a key life event.

Bay Street Capital Holdings

Logo - Bay Street Capital Holdings

Bay Street Capital Holdings is a Black-owned, independent investment advisory, wealth management, and financial planning firm headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. They manage portfolios with the goal of maintaining and increasing total assets and income with a high priority on managing total risk and volatility. Although many advisors may focus on maximizing returns, they place a higher priority on managing total risk and volatility.

Our founder, William Huston founded Bay Street after 13 years of supporting the United States' largest retirement plan ($650B) Thrift Savings Plan. He is recognized as Investopedia’s Top 100 Financial Advisors for 2022. In California, Bay Street Capital Holdings is the only Black-owned firm out of the twenty firms that received this recognition.

In Scottsdale Arizona, Ekenna Anya-Gafu CFP, AAMS is recognized among the Best Financial Advisors for his responsiveness, friendliness, helpfulness, and detail. Bay Street was founded to advocate for diverse and emerging fund managers and entrepreneurs.

In 2021, Bay Street was selected as a finalist out of over 900 firms across the US in the category of Asset Manager for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Sources

https://www.realtrends.com/articles/naglrep-partners-with-real-trends-lgbt-agent-and-team-rankings/

https://naglrep.com/

https://www.housingwire.com/articles/46761-here-are-the-top-lgbt-real-estate-agents/

http://huberttate.com/about-us/

https://shirleygary.evrealestate.com/

https://www.daviddorman.com/selling/

https://sachablanchet.com/about/

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