Celebrating Women’s History in Real Estate

Louisiana REALTORS® • March 13, 2023

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's important to acknowledge the immense contributions women have made to the real estate industry. From pioneering agents to influential brokers, women have played a vital role in shaping the real estate landscape.

Here are some key moments and figures in real estate that were made possible and created by women.


Elizabeth J. McCormick

In 1903, Elizabeth J. McCormick became the first woman to earn a real estate license in the United States. She went on to establish the Women's Real Estate Association of Chicago, which aimed to support and empower women in the industry.


Dorothy Alther

In 1936, Dorothy Alther became the first female member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). She went on to become the first female president of the Illinois Association of REALTORS® in 1950.


Barbara Corcoran

Barbara Corcoran founded The Corcoran Group in 1973 with just $1,000. She built the company into one of the largest and most successful real estate firms in New York City before selling it in 2001 for $66 million. Corcoran is also a bestselling author and a judge on the hit TV show Shark Tank.


Joan Kroc

In 1980, Joan Kroc, the wife of McDonald's founder Ray Kroc, became one of the first female real estate developers in the country. She used her wealth to build low-income housing communities and shopping centers, and her legacy lives on through the Joan Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego.


Dottie Herman

Dottie Herman is the CEO of Douglas Elliman, one of the largest real estate brokerages in the United States. She began her career in real estate as a secretary and worked her way up to the top of the industry, becoming the first woman to hold the CEO position at a major real estate brokerage in New York City.


These women, and countless others like them, have blazed a trail for women in real estate. Today, women make up a significant portion of real estate agents and brokers, and many are leaders in the industry. However, there is still work to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities and pay in the real estate field.


As a REALTOR®, you can honor Women's History Month by learning more about the achievements and struggles of women in the industry. You can also support and mentor women who are just starting out in real estate, and advocate for policies that promote gender equality in the workplace.


Let's celebrate the women who have shaped the real estate industry and continue to pave the way for future generations.

REALTOR® RESOURCES

Consumer Guide Update: State and Local Tax (SALT) Deductions

By Louisiana REALTORS® • July 28, 2025
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