When we talk about real estate, we tend to talk about home affordability, current statistics and market analysis. Rarely do we dig deeper into how our real estate professionals are continually making a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Real estate agents are by far one of the highest paying professions in the economy. In fact, 69% of Realtors volunteer monthly, and 86% of National Association of Realtors members donate to various causes, up from 79% in 2022.
The Santa Clara County Association of Realtors is no exception. In 1990, the organization founded the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation (SCCRF). SCCRF’s mission is to unite organized real estate by investing in our neighborhoods with compassion, vision and action. To unite Realtors to make a difference by supporting families, revitalizing communities and supporting disaster relief.
SCCRF President Jenny Ford explains what motivates her to serve her community.
“There are several reasons why I prioritize giving back to the community,” she said. “I do it because I know that even by helping one person, I can help our community on a broader scale. Personally, I love serving others. Through years of volunteer work and collaboration with nonprofit organizations, we support the needs of women, children, and families, building not only stronger individuals and families, but also our communities. The Santa Clara County Realtors Foundation has a tradition of making a difference locally and making Santa Clara County a better place to live. I feel fortunate to be able to carry on the tradition and make my own impact while building strength of character.”
The foundation supports first-time homebuyers in realizing their dreams of homeownership through its down payment assistance program, awarding seven grants totaling $70,000 through 2023. In February, SCCRF partnered with San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan to help clean up Jeffrey Fontana Park, and APRIL partnered with Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley to help rehabilitate homes.
From an economic perspective, California’s real estate industry accounted for $678.5 billion in 2023, or 17.6% of the state’s gross product, according to the California Association of Realtors. The total economic impact of her single home sale in California is estimated at $233,500. This economic development increases the demand for labor and provides economic resources to surrounding communities.
In summary, while discussions about real estate often focus on market trends and affordability, it is important to recognize the significant positive impact real estate professionals have on the communities they serve. Real estate agents embody this commitment by giving generously of their time and resources, with a significant percentage involved in volunteer work and charitable efforts.
The Santa Clara County Realtors Foundation is a shining example of community revitalization, family support, and disaster relief. Through programs like their Down Payment Assistance Initiative, the Foundation makes the dream of homeownership a reality for many. Additionally, the real estate industry contributes significantly to the state’s GDP and job creation, so its economic importance cannot be understated.
As SCCRF Chairman Ford aptly put it, giving back not only strengthens the community, but enriches individuals both personally and professionally. Indeed, the legacy of community impact continues to thrive through the dedication and compassion of real estate professionals like those at the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors.
San Jose Spotlight columnist Neil Collins is CEO of the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors, a trade association representing more than 6,000 real estate agents in Santa Clara County and the surrounding area. Contact Neil at [email protected] Or follow @neilvcollins on X, formerly known as Twitter.
