In October of 2021, I was introduced to a young woman who was interested in buying a home. We had a mutual friend who had coached her in basketball at University of Utah and wanted someone who could work with her and her extended family as more of them began to buy homes. As a Black family in Portland Oregon, they had first hand experience of the institutionalized racism pervasive in the local housing industry that had affected generations of their family. As a White Realtor, I knew that the best way forward was to listen to , learn from and advocate for the needs of my client and her family. Little did I know at our first meeting, that my clients true intention was to buy a house for her grandma (who helped raised her) as a Christmas surprise! This first meeting started us on a journey that has encompassed all the things I love about my profession. We found a house that she loved. I get to work with my client on renovations to incorporate accessible design so that grandma is safe in her home. Best of all, I can play a part in addressing some of the results of housing discrimination by helping this family build equity in the housing market. For the full story, check out this article in The Oregonian!
jackiehaddon
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