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As we celebrate Women’s History Month, education has always been a cornerstone behind my professional success, shaping my strategic thinking and leadership skills. In the multifamily and commercial real estate sector, where change is constant, the value of lifelong learning cannot be overstated. My journey in this field has been deeply influenced by formal education and ongoing professional development, both instrumental in how I approach problem-solving and innovation.
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- How Education Shapes Success in Real Estate
- Breaking Barriers and Leading Change
- Advice for Women Entering the Rental Housing Industry
How Education Shapes Success in Real Estate
Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across all industries, including real estate, where education and leadership are shaping a more inclusive future. Earning my BBA in Finance from Texas Tech University provided the analytical foundation I needed to excel in real estate. However, beyond the classroom, my greatest learning has come from ongoing professional development and real-world experiences, including industry certifications, leadership programs like the NAA Lyceum, seminars, webinars, and simply listening to the challenges and insights of peers. All have been instrumental in refining my skills and perspective.
As CEO of Grace Hill, I apply this same philosophy to our organization, working to empower professionals at every level through learning and development opportunities and equipping them with the tools they need to grow, adapt, and lead. Training and education are not just about compliance or skill-building; they are about shaping the future of those who impact and lead the real estate industry.
Breaking Barriers and Leading Change
Being a woman in the rental housing industry means navigating a historically male-dominated field while working to create pathways for the next generation of female leaders. It means leading with confidence, advocating for change, and ensuring that future generations of women in real estate have access to opportunities, mentorship, and leadership roles.
Early in my career, I was often one of the only women in the room, an experience that instilled in me a deep understanding of why representation and inclusion matter. Today, more than half of Grace Hill’s leadership team is female, a testament to the industry’s evolving landscape, and we continue to prioritize pathways for advancement, work-life balance, and mentorship.
For me, being a woman in this space is about more than just leadership — it’s about the learning process that leads to empowerment. We may lead differently than our male counterparts, but there isn’t just one way to lead. More importantly, one leadership style isn’t better than another.
Ultimately, it’s about ensuring women’s voices are heard, ideas are valued, and outdated norms don’t limit career growth. I’m proud to be part of an industry that is evolving, and I look forward to continuing to help shape that progress.
➡️ Ebook: Top 15 Women Leaders in Multifamily Making an Impact
Advice for Women Entering the Rental Housing Industry
To the women considering or starting a career in rental housing: You belong here; this industry needs you. Your perspective, expertise, and leadership are invaluable to shaping the future of this business.
Here’s My Advice:
- Be Your Own Best Advocate: Insert yourself into conversations, ask questions, and challenge the status quo in a productive way.
- Communicate with Confidence: Strong, clear communication can be a game-changer for your career. When necessary, course-correct with confidence and always provide full context.
- Seek Mentorship and Build Your Network: Surround yourself with mentors and peers who will support and inspire you. Never underestimate your ability to lead. The industry needs more diverse voices, and if you’re willing to show up, learn, and drive change, the opportunities are limitless.
- Lift Others as You Climb: Support the next generation of female leaders by creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and advocating for equity in leadership.
Real estate is evolving, and women play a crucial role in its transformation. The future of rental housing leadership is brighter when more women are at the table, so what’s your next step?
The time is now to invest in yourself. You can advance your career with Visto; it’s easy, affordable, and perfectly suited for individuals looking to grow their skills in property management.
