The real estate industry in America has continued to be dominated by whites even though more and more Blacks are venturing into the sector. Blacks make up 14 percent of America’s population, but only about 6 percent of real estate agents and brokers in the U.S.
What is more, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) notes that white real estate agents make almost three times as much as their black peers. But Black couple Doug and Atiya Parson are seeking to change the narrative. They have worked with some of hip-hop’s finest, such as T.I., Yung Joc, Safaree, and many more.
Their shared history drew them together. Both grew up without their father and shared common personal struggles. But they found strength in their shared values and aspirations, setting the stage for a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding.
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“Our differences helped bring us together,” Doug told BE. “We wanted to create our scenario, our own story,” Atiya added. Doug continued, “We set parameters on how to make a strong foundation for our kids and us.”
They first met at a skating rink. Skating was one of the things Atiya loved doing as a pastime in Indianapolis. At the time, she was in college while working three jobs. Atiya would later join her husband in the real estate field after her college education.
Venturing into the real estate sector was for Doug and Atiya to change the narrative in the sector: to show people how to make money. Their aim is to teach people how to flip houses and then build wealth so that they can leave their families a legacy.
“We’re aiming to help people who get all this money and don’t know what to do with it, we’re aiming for the hustlers to change their lives, we’re aiming at the people whose grandmother or uncle died, a couple of years ago, and they might have received a check for $60,000.00 and they have no clue what to do with it,” Doug told Upscale Magazine. “So that’s the people we aim at, and we’re aiming for the couples that can bring a lot of love into the relationship with finances.”
Speaking in an interview with The Source, Doug further highlighted how the journey in real estate began. According to him, it was a tough “crossover” for him after having been a hustler.
“It was crazy, because you make so much money and with everything that comes along with that transition, it was tough. It was a time where after I quit hustling, I went broke. And I had to get a regular job for a short period of time before I could get back up. So, I would definitely say it was a tough crossover, he recalled. “It’s tough from going from hustling to just real estate or anything legal thereafter.”
Through their book, “We Nailed It! The Blueprint for Relationships and Real Estate,” they share their personal experiences and offer readers a roadmap for success, blending practical advice with anecdotes, according to BE.
On the secret to maintaining a happy home all while building a successful brand, the couple, who have been together for over 25 years, said communication is key. “It’s all about communication, learning each other’s do’s and don’ts and what their buttons are, and keeping it real; never lie to each other,” Doug said.
“Communication and shared experiences are essential,” Atiya added. “We’ve learned to adapt and grow together in real estate and our relationship, finding strength in each other’s presence.”
