Member Voices

Real Estate...male dominant territory??

Overcoming Sexism and Building Success in Real Estate: One Woman's Journey Through Industry Bias

The real estate industry has long been a male-dominated field, both in the residential and commercial sectors, but it is time for that to change. With over a decade of experience as a successful Realtor, I have developed deep expertise in market analysis and property investment.

A few years ago, when I identified an investment opportunity, I was met with a frustrating reality check. While my husband—my partner in all things—trusted my professional judgment and recognized that the numbers made sense, the listing agent did not. Dealing with an old-school, dismissive attitude from a veteran in the field served as a stark reminder of the systemic misogyny that persists among some of the “old-timers” in our industry. The other Realtor INSISTED on sitting down with my husband so that “we could all be on the same page.”

I'm the Realtor.

I know the industry.

I know the numbers.

And yet, he wanted to sit down with my husband, who could care less about the property as long as the numbers made sense.

WTF.

I couldn't even believe the request. My husband felt inconvenienced. It was a train wreck. And yet, we obliged because it meant securing this property at an undervalued price point. We ended up buying the property and reselling it for a profit. However, I've never felt so insignificant. Even in this day and age, sexism is a HUGE hurdle in the real estate industry in Coeur d'Alene, ID. Who would have thought?!

I am here to tell you to persevere. Push through the hurdles. Find a partner who backs you 100% and proceed without hesitation.

YOU can do it. A man who gets in your way is just another hurdle. A man who supports you is another lever to utilize so that you can reach greatness. Pick your battles. You can do this.

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About the Author Megan Leary Founder / Real Estate Agent, Collective Real Estate Network

Megan Leary is an accomplished real estate professional with 13 years of Pacific Northwest market experience and a Psychology degree from California Lutheran University. As a top-producing agent, in addition to selling she recently founded the Collective Real Estate Network to help agents grow their name, visibility, connections, and real estate business through a curriculum-based program beyond any coaching or…

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