NCJAR News
Discover, Learn, and Act for a More Inclusive Real Estate Industry
The real estate industry is a cornerstone of communities and an essential part of society’s economic and social fabric. As the world evolves, so too must the way we engage with the people and communities we serve. The 2025 LEVEL UP: REALTOR® Opportunity Summit is an essential event for real estate professionals looking to expand their understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and create a more inclusive and thriving marketplace. This two-day regional summit offers a unique opportunity for professionals to come together, network, and engage with experts, leaders, and peers in the real estate industry.
Purpose of the DEI Summit
Bill Flagg is a North Central Jersey leader dedicated to fostering inclusion and advancing fair housing. Committed to the Fair Housing Act, he has led impactful initiatives addressing housing inequities. He introduced Newark’s first successful Homeownership Fair with Metropolitan Baptist Church, attended by 300+ community members. The event featured sessions on renting vs. buying, credit repair and down payment assistance. Through his leadership, Flagg continues to promote fair housing, ensuring equal, professional service for all while making a lasting impact on NCJAR and the communities it serves. Watch the full video here.
Bill Flagg: Uplifting Others (REALTOR® Magazine, Apr. 10, 2025)
Fair Housing Month is an important time for REALTORS® across the country to reflect on the progress made since the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and to reaffirm our commitment to providing equal opportunities in housing for all. This year, we celebrated the strides made toward creating more inclusive communities while also focusing on the work still needed to ensure that everyone has access to homeownership and housing opportunities regardless of background, race, or income.
A Look Back: The Passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968
The Fair Housing Act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, was a landmark piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Over the past 50+ years, the Act has been a cornerstone in the ongoing fight for equality in housing, ensuring that all individuals have the right to live in communities of their choice.
As we observed this momentous occasion, we took time to recognize the continued work required to ensure that these protections remain in place and that fair housing practices evolve with the times.
Celebrating Leadership in Fair Housing
A key highlight of this year’s Fair Housing Month celebration was the recognition of Bill Flagg as the recipient of the 2025 Fair Housing Champion Award. Bill’s dedication and tireless work in advancing fair housing initiatives in his community have made a lasting impact. His efforts to provide affordable housing options and advocate for inclusive policies stand as an inspiring example of leadership in the real estate industry. Congratulations again, Bill, for your outstanding contributions to ensuring fair housing for all!
The real estate market is constantly evolving, and it’s important for professionals to stay informed on the latest trends. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or real estate agent, the landscape has shifted, and understanding these changes can make all the difference in navigating today’s market.
What’s Happening in Today’s Real Estate Market?
Buyers and sellers now have new expectations. From how they search for homes to what they want in a home, these shifts in behavior are influencing the industry. With affordability challenges still lingering and many struggling to find their dream home, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. Some buyers have found creative ways to enter the market, and the demographics of homebuyers are also changing. So, who is today’s housing consumer, and what do they expect from their real estate agent or broker?
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