NCJAR News
The DEI Real Estate Summit 2024, held on June 3rd and 4th in Newark, NJ, was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of professionals dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the real estate industry.
Day One: Learning and Networking
The summit kicked off with a session led by Matt Difanis on "Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing," where attendees gained valuable insights into identifying and overcoming biases in real estate practices. The day concluded with a vibrant networking reception, providing a great opportunity for attendees to connect with peers and discuss the day's learnings.
Day Two: In-depth Discussions and Strategic Insights
The second day began with warm welcomes from NJR & NYSAR Presidents, Gloria Monks and Joe Rivellino, setting an empowering tone for the day. Notable sessions included "Beyond Checking the Box: How Representation Leads to Better Results," featuring insights from Alex Vidal and Troy Singleton, and a critical discussion on "Unmasking Appraisal Biases" with experts like Jillian White and Alexia Smokler.
A highlight of the day was the keynote fireside chat with Thasunda Brown Duckett, President & CEO of TIAA, moderated by Michelle Mills Clement, which delved deep into leadership roles in fostering diversity and inclusion.
The summit concluded on a high note, leaving participants inspired and equipped with new tools and strategies to implement in their professional lives.
Let’s give a warm welcome to NJCAR’s newest affiliate member, Chris Fano, VP of Mortgage of Guaranteed Rate.
From being a former volunteer firefighter to a current Scoutmaster with my sons Boy Scout Troop, as well as a local Soccer and Basketball Coach in my home town, helping people has been at the forefront of everything I do. After receiving a Bachelor's degree in business administration I spent 20 years in the world of business where I was privileged to lead great teams at great companies. I then accepted an opportunity in the mortgage industry with Guaranteed Rate, a company that offers outstanding customer service, integrated technology, and a proactive approach to close loans and facilitate best in class customer satisfaction. When outside of the workplace, you will find me spending quality time with friends and family including my amazing wife Dana and three amazing children, Brandon, Juliana and Donovan.
June is a month of vibrant celebrations, heartfelt recognition, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. North Central Jersey Association of Realtors (NCJAR) is proud to join in commemorating Pride Month, highlighting our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the real estate industry.
Why We Celebrate Pride
Pride Month is not only a time for celebration but also a period for reflection on the strides we've made towards equality and the journey still ahead. It marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal event in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. At NCJAR, we believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from diverse perspectives. We stand with our LGBTQ+ members, clients, and allies, promoting an environment of inclusivity.
NCJAR's Initiatives for Inclusivity
Throughout the year, and especially during Pride Month, NCJAR is actively involved in several initiatives aimed at supporting the LGBTQ+ community and fostering an inclusive atmosphere in the real estate market:
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Education and Training: We provide our members with resources and training on fair housing laws and best practices for serving LGBTQ+ clients. This includes understanding the unique challenges faced by this community in the housing market.
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Community Engagement: NCJAR participates in local Pride events and supports LGBTQ+ community centers. By engaging with the community, we aim to build strong, inclusive networks that empower everyone.
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Policy Advocacy: We advocate for policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in housing and real estate. This includes supporting statewide initiatives that aim to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to spotlight the enduring value of owning a home. At North Central Jersey Association of Realtors (NCJAR), we are dedicated to enlightening our community about the substantial benefits of homeownership and committed to making this cherished dream a reality for every family.
Building Generational Wealth
Homeownership is more than just owning a property; it's a pathway to building generational wealth. Over time, homes generally appreciate in value, offering long-term financial security to families. The equity built in homes can serve as a foundation for future investments, education funding, or as a nest egg for retirement.
Strengthening Communities
