History of the Women's
Council of REALTORS®
In 1924, the California Real Estate
Association formed a Women's Division, after members founded the idea on
a train ride home from the National Association's convention in
Washington, D.C. Fourteen years later, Joseph Catherine, the 1938
president of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (then called the
National Association of Real Estate Boards), encouraged the formation of
the Women's Council after being impressed by the California group and
the immense potential of women in real estate.
At the time, NAR was already 30 years old and most decisions were
still made at the Local Board level. Unfortunately, most Local Boards
were still resistant to women; however, the National Association was
ready to recognize women in real estate and a positive vote resulted in
the formation of a women's division at the Annual Convention held in
Milwaukee in November of 1938. Thirty-seven ambitious women represented
nine states at that meeting and WCR's inception. Through the decades,
WCR's membership growth reflected the vast number of women choosing a
career in real estate.
Women began to recognize the immense benefits of careers in real
estate: combined with a WCR membership, including:
Salaries equitable to men's since "commission is commission."
Flexible work schedules allowing REALTORS® the ability to raise a
family and have a career instead of choosing one or the other.
A support system of women in the same field garnering many
friendships, networking capabilities - and referrals.
Gaining confidence through association with other professional women
REALTORS®. Recognition for their own achievements and success, as well
as inspiration and courage to strive for greater successes. |