Who We Are

The Chicago chapter of African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP Chicago) is part of a national network committed to advancing Black professionals within the commercial real estate industry. Our mission is to support, advance and promote the intellectual, professional and economic development of African Americans in and associated with the commercial real estate industry.

We empower individuals seeking to establish and grow their careers through access to professional development, mentorship, and meaningful networking opportunities.

In a city known for its rich architectural legacy and dynamic real estate market, AAREP Chicago provides a platform where Black professionals can build relationships, share knowledge, and gain access to the resources that support long-term success.

Our community includes professionals across a wide range of real estate disciplines, including:

  • Accounting
  • Acquisitions/Dispositions
  • Appraisal
  • Architecture
  • Asset Management
  • Brokerage
  • CRE Business Development
  • Commercial Insurance
  • Commercial Lending
  • Construction Management/General Contracting
  • Contracting
  • Consulting
  • Corporate Real Estate
  • Cost Segregation
  • Development, Real Estate
  • Economic Development
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Environmental
  • ESG
  • CRE Executive
  • Facility Management
  • Finance
  • CRE Human Resources
  • Interior Design/Space Planning
  • Investment Management
  • Investor Relations
  • Land Surveying
  • Land Use Planning and Zoning
  • Law
  • Market Research
  • Program/Project Management
  • Property Management
  • Public Sector
  • Relocation Services
  • Risk Management
  • Title Escrow

Together, we are creating space for Black leadership to thrive and shape the future of commercial real estate in Chicago and beyond.

AAREP Chicago Focus Areas:

  • Advance Black Leadership in commercial real estate by promoting visibility, opportunity, and access across the industry.
  • Professional Growth through networking, mentorship, and career development tailored to the unique experiences of Black professionals in Chicago.
  • Strategic Connections among developers, brokers, asset managers, architects, attorneys, and other real estate professionals across the region.
  • Champion Economic Empowerment by providing opportunities for members to connect and lead projects that reshape and reinvest in historically underserved communities.
  • Cultivate Community Impact through programming that bridges real estate development with inclusive neighborhood revitalization.
  • Create Generational Wealth by expanding access to ownership, investment, and leadership opportunities.
  • Highlight Black Excellence in Chicago’s commercial real estate landscape through events, recognition, and public engagement.

We Create Pathways for
Real Estate
Professionals
to thrive