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“Women, Wealth and Real Estate” is a special series for Women’s History Month spotlighting the diverse stories of women who created wealth for themselves and their communities through real estate and power moves.
In an industry historically dominated by men, real estate is now empowering women nationwide. From becoming homeowners to building careers and generating wealth, women are making their mark in ways that were once out of reach. One such woman, Martice Brumfield, has experienced firsthand the transformative power of real estate in creating financial independence and long-term wealth.
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Family values
Brumfield’s journey into real estate began early, with her grandparents setting the tone for property ownership. She recalls how her grandmother’s belief in real estate as a vehicle for wealth influenced her perspective. “She believed in property ownership and encouraged it. My grandparents owned several properties during their lifetime, and it was unheard of in that era,” Brumfield says. This legacy of real estate ownership was a guiding force as she ventured into the industry.
While Brumfield was searching for her family’s first home, the real estate “bug” truly bit her. She’d come across a property listed as a “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO), and Brumfield took the reins. “I remember doing all the legwork for the property as the buyer. After we closed, I knew I wanted to be a real estate professional,” she says. This hands-on experience sparked her passion for real estate, and she made it her career.
Leading the way
Today, Brumfield is a full-service real estate professional specializing in residential and commercial properties with Keller Williams. With over 20 years of experience, she has helped countless families navigate the homebuying process and become first-time homeowners. As the 2025 President for the Women’s Council of Realtors LA/Beverly Hills, Brumfield is committed to empowering and educating women in the industry, advocating for financial independence and creating opportunities for others to succeed in real estate.
However, Brumfield’s journey wasn’t without its challenges, especially as a Black woman in an industry where diversity has historically been limited. One poignant moment stands out: While door knocking for new business, a homeowner remarked, “Wow, you’re a young Black girl.” Although the woman didn’t intend any harm, it marked a turning point for Brumfield, making her acutely aware of the barriers she might face. “It taught me the value of not giving up, pushing forward and staying graceful during challenging situations,” Brumfield reflects.
Despite the challenges, Brumfield has not only thrived but now uses her platform to educate others about the power of real estate ownership in building wealth. “Real estate is an avenue for building wealth and leaving a legacy,” she says.
Having witnessed firsthand how her grandparents used real estate to secure their financial future, she has continued their legacy by helping others understand the potential of property ownership. “I teach my clients the importance of building with their first property and growing with additional ones,” she adds.
Financial freedom
For women — especially young or single women — considering real estate as a path to financial freedom, Brumfield offers invaluable advice: Start investing early. “Don’t listen to individuals who tell you that you can’t do it or that you need a lot of money to get started. It takes a desire to want something better for yourself,” she encourages. With a focus on persistence, hard work and resilience, Brumfield emphasizes that overcoming the barriers of doubt and fear can unlock the door to financial independence.
The statistics back her up. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeownership among women is steadily increasing, with women making up a significant portion of the homebuying market.
Moreover, women of color are emerging as a rising force in real estate investment. According to the Urban Institute, Black women are leading the way in homeownership rates among people of color, a trend that reflects the broader shift toward wealth-building in marginalized communities.
The future is female
Looking ahead, Brumfield sees real estate continuing to empower women through property ownership. She highlights how real estate can offer stability and independence, particularly for women facing life transitions such as divorce. “I give them a sense of encouragement that helps them move forward,” Brumfield says.
Her goal is to get women “out of their head and into their home,” showing them that they, too, can be successful homeowners and investors.
One of the most exciting possibilities for the future of real estate, according to Brumfield, is the idea of women collaborating to pool their resources and invest in real estate together. “There’s no greater network of support than seeing women rise and elevate together,” she says. By coming together, women can leverage their collective resources to make significant strides in the industry.
The real estate industry, once seen as an exclusive domain, is now opening doors for women to step in and create their own financial futures. Through ownership, investment and professional careers, women like Martice Brumfield are leading the way. With perseverance, collaboration and empowerment, the next generation of women in real estate will continue to break down barriers and redefine what’s possible.
Melanie C. Klein, M.A., is a sought-after empowerment and mindset coach working with individuals and teams across the country to align and integrate their personal and professional spheres for increased success and abundance without compromising their joy.
