National Association of Real Estate Brokers

NAREB Region 1

History

The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. (NAREB), was founded in 1947, making it the oldest African American and minority trade association in America. During the time of segregation, minorities could not be a "Realtor" and so the Members of the NAREB organization called themselves "Realtist". NAREB was formed out of a need to secure the right to equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or color. Since its inception, NAREB has participated in various meaningful challenges and legislative improvements, to establish fair housing for all. Although comprised principally of African Americans, the Realtist organization embraces all qualified Real Estate Practitioners who are committed to achieve the ideas of the vision, which is Democracy in Housing.

NAREB's national goal is to bring together the nation's minority professionals in the real estate industry to serve the un-served and underserved as well as being the guardian of our communities. NAREB ensures training and educational opportunities to our entire membership across the country, providing certifications and special designations in many areas of interest. Our ability to professionally service our client base with integrity and trust is the foundation by which we operate.

Each local chapter encourages new members to join and actively become community real estate leaders.

These twelve pioneers, one woman and eleven men hailing from seven states across the country, are NAREB'S recognized founders:

• Nannie Black, Detroit, MI

• Macco Crutcher, Detroit, MI

• Carleton Gains, Detroit, MI

• W. D. Morrison, Jr., Detroit MI

• O. B. Cobbins, Jackson, MS

• W.H. Hollins, Birmingham, AL

• George W. Powell, Jacksonville, FL

• J. R. Taylor, Miami, FL

• F. Henry Williams, Jacksonville, FL

• Horace Sudduth, Cincinnati, OH

• J. W. Sanford, Oklahoma City, OK

• A. Maceo Smith, Dallas, TX