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When we hear the words “real estate,” what typically comes to mind? For decades, it's been a world dominated by men, where the image of the powerful "real estate mogul" often skews male. But times are changing. Women in real estate aren’t just breaking barriers; they’re reshaping the entire industry, revolutionising property technology, investment, and leadership. And I’m beyond thrilled to be part of this transformation.
For as long as I can remember, the stereotype that real estate is a man’s world was deeply ingrained in our collective consciousness. But now, we’re witnessing a seismic shift. Women are no longer bystanders; they're visionaries, innovators, and decision-makers. From leadership roles to entrepreneurial ventures and tech-driven solutions, we are redefining what success looks like in real estate.
From High Fashion to High-Rises: A Bold Career Pivot
My journey into this world wasn’t conventional. I came from luxury branding—an industry built on aspiration, emotional connection, and storytelling. Working with some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, I saw firsthand how a brand isn’t just about a product; it's about the experience, the dream, and the emotions it evokes. And when I transitioned into real estate, I realised that these very principles could redefine the way people buy and experience property.
Real estate is more than square footage; it's about finding a home that speaks to you. We’re revolutionizing the experience, making it seamless, intuitive, and aspirational while ensuring accessibility remains at its core. Technology isn’t just simplifying real estate; it’s elevating it, making the process more engaging, transparent, and customer-centric.
So, what makes women in PropTech stand out? It’s not just about breaking glass ceilings; it's about leveraging our unique strengths. Women bring a distinctive approach to real estate, transforming the industry with skills that have long been undervalued but are now proving to be game-changers.
Let’s talk about emotional intelligence—a superpower in real estate. Understanding clients' needs, empathizing with their concerns, and forging genuine connections are what set great real estate professionals apart. Women excel at this. Trust and relationships are the bedrock of this industry, and emotional intelligence is no longer a "soft skill" but a strategic asset.
Beyond that, women are natural multitaskers, exceptional at balancing big-picture strategy with intricate details. Negotiating deals, managing complex projects, and leading organizations all require patience, resilience, and a keen eye for detail. These skills make us not just participants but power players in real estate.
Breaking the Myth: Real Estate Was Never a Man’s World—Just a Man-Made Notion
But here’s the bigger picture: The future of real estate isn’t about men versus women—it’s about inclusion, diversity, and collaboration. A balanced industry is a stronger industry. Today, more than ever, the real estate sector is welcoming women into leadership roles, and the momentum is unstoppable.
Women are no longer just entering real estate; they’re leading it. From top consultants to CEOs of real estate firms, we are at the helm, driving innovation and making strategic decisions. The barriers that once kept women on the sidelines—gender biases, societal norms, and limited leadership access—are crumbling. The industry is evolving, and women are shaping its future.
The ecosystem is also becoming more supportive. Global companies are prioritizing diversity and inclusion, recognizing the value of varied perspectives in decision-making. Organizations like CREDAI are championing gender diversity, creating platforms for women to lead. Mentorship programs and leadership training initiatives are helping women break through barriers, while flexible work models are ensuring that career and personal commitments no longer have to be at odds.
Even on the policy front, government initiatives are empowering women in real estate. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) offer financial incentives for women homebuyers. Reduced stamp duty in certain states, preferential home loan rates, and customized investment schemes are making property ownership more accessible. Women aren’t just working in real estate; they’re investing, owning, and driving its future.
What’s truly exciting is how PropTech is expanding these opportunities even further. The rise of AI-powered platforms, digital transactions, and tech-driven marketing is opening new doors for women. We’re not just adapting to the digital era; we’re leading it, leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and redefine real estate for the modern world.
The winds of change are sweeping through this industry, and women are at the forefront. With greater diversity, a more supportive ecosystem, and groundbreaking innovations, the opportunities for women in real estate have never been greater. This sector isn’t just evolving; it's being redefined, and women are steering its transformation.
As we continue to break barriers and build the future of real estate, I am more optimistic than ever. This isn’t just about breaking glass ceilings; it’s about constructing a new world where everyone has equal access to opportunities. The future of real estate is diverse, inclusive, and brimming with possibilities—and women are leading the way.
The journey has only just begun, and the best is yet to come.
Authored by Shivani Karia Jhaveri, Co-Founder and COO of Blox. Views expressed by the author are their own.