The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) brought its 8-City Affordable Homeownership Bus Tour to Little Rock, delivering resources, education, and real solutions to help expand homeownership and build generational wealth within the community.
Held at Philander Smith University on May 1, the event convened local and national leaders, including Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr., NAREB President Ashley Thomas III, and Arkansas Association of Realtist President Samella Robinson-Paulk. The initiative is part of NAREB’s national effort to advance “Democracy in Housing” and address the persistent gap in Black homeownership.
Despite Black residents making up approximately 39% of Little Rock’s population, they account for only 24% of mortgage originations, underscoring the urgent need for targeted solutions. Through workshops, panel discussions, and one-on-one counseling, attendees gained practical tools and guidance on credit, homebuying, heirs’ property rights, and transitioning from renting to ownership.
Under the leadership of President Thomas, the tour focuses on closing the wealth gap by increasing access, improving affordability, and empowering families with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve sustainable homeownership.
Hosted locally by the Arkansas Association of Realtist Board, the event reflects a strong commitment to ensuring that homeownership remains an accessible pathway to economic stability and generational wealth in Little Rock.
The NAREB Affordable Homeownership Bus Tour includes stops in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Detroit, Gary, Kansas City, Memphis, Little Rock, and Tulsa, bringing impactful, community-centered solutions to cities across the country.