The fight for economic empowerment and wealth equity is about to reach new heights. The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) has announced its highly anticipated 2024 Black Wealth Summit, set to take place at the historic Clark Atlanta University on November 15, 2024. This year’s summit is expected to attract thought leaders, real estate professionals, policymakers, and community activists—all united with one goal: to elevate Black homeownership and financial stability in America.

Why This Summit Matters: More Than Just a Meeting

Let’s be clear—this isn't just another conference. The 2024 Black Wealth Summit is a powerhouse event aimed at tackling systemic challenges head-on, from appraisal bias to heir property dispersal. For decades, Black Americans have faced disproportionate barriers to homeownership—an essential pillar in building wealth. This summit offers not only a platform to discuss these issues but also actionable solutions to drive real change.

NAREB, with its 76-year history of championing democracy in housing, is positioning the summit as a catalyst for transformation. NAREB President Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose put it bluntly: “We are unyielding in our pursuit of advancing Black homeownership. This summit isn’t just about highlighting the problem; it’s about finding the solutions that will drive equity in real estate for generations to come.”

The Numbers Speak Volumes—And They're Not Pretty

The statistics are sobering. In 2024 alone, the Black-White wealth gap in America remains staggering. The 2023 State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report revealed that the 400 wealthiest Americans hold as much wealth as all 48 million Black Americans combined. NAREB’s efforts are laser-focused on reversing this alarming trend by providing tangible resources, data-driven strategies, and crucial insights that empower Black families to achieve homeownership.

Dr. Rose shared an eye-opening fact: “There are over two million mortgage-ready Black Americans today who don't own homes. These individuals have the income and credit scores to qualify, but they lack the education, resources, and guidance to navigate the often-complex homebuying process.” The summit will provide a much-needed roadmap for these prospective homeowners.

Summit Highlights: Shattering Myths, Building Bridges

One of the most anticipated elements of the 2024 summit is its deep dive into groundbreaking studies that address pivotal issues in the Black homeownership landscape. Key discussions will include:

1. Appraisal Bias: The undervaluation of Black-owned homes has long been a hidden but damaging problem. Recent efforts to tackle appraisal bias from both government and private sectors will be dissected, with experts offering actionable steps for homeowners and policymakers alike.

2. Heir Property: Often overlooked, heir property refers to land passed down informally within families, frequently leading to legal disputes and loss of generational wealth. The summit will highlight ways to curb the dispersal of this valuable asset, educating families on how to protect their property from predatory developers and gentrification.

3. State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) Report: The 11th edition of NAREB’s SHIBA report will provide an extensive analysis of the historical barriers Black Americans face in the housing market. This report is crucial in shaping future policy decisions and creating pathways for equitable homeownership.

Partnering for Change: A Collective Effort

This year, NAREB isn’t going at it alone. The Black Wealth Summit is supported by a powerful coalition of organizations committed to building wealth in Black communities. Heavyweights like the African American Mayors Association, National Bar Association, and The Church Of God In Christ will lend their voices to the summit. And the efforts don't stop there. On November 16, NAREB will host a community-driven event—Building Black Wealth—at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, where residents can access hands-on resources, classes, and workshops to prepare them for homeownership.

Taking the Movement National: The Building Black Wealth Tour

For those who can’t attend the summit, NAREB’s *Building Black Wealth Tour* is coming to a city near you. Launched in 2023, this national tour has already touched over 100 communities, offering one-on-one counseling, homebuying classes, and investment workshops to empower families. From real estate career development to estate planning, the tour ensures no one is left behind.

Houston—Are You Ready to Build?

As Houston continues to grow, the need for more Black homeowners in our vibrant city has never been greater. NAREB’s mission aligns perfectly with the aspirations of Houston’s Black community—creating opportunities, building generational wealth, and fostering resilience. NAREB’s efforts aren’t just about addressing a national issue; they’re about uplifting families right here in our backyard.

For Houstonians looking to join this movement, now is the time. Whether you’re mortgage-ready or need guidance on how to get there, NAREB and its partners are here to support you. The path to homeownership and wealth creation starts with events like the Black Wealth Summit and the Building Black Wealth Tour, which bring real, lasting change to communities like ours.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Community

At the heart of this effort is a simple truth: We’re stronger together. As Dr. Rose eloquently stated, “The barriers of the past must be shattered so that everyone—regardless of race—can build wealth and a better life for their families.” The 2024 Black Wealth Summit is not just an event but a movement toward a brighter, more equitable future. Let’s seize the opportunity to be a part of it.

For more information, visit www.narebblackwealthtour.com.