Breaking Barriers: The Women of FOUND on Real Estate & Accelerating Change

Real estate has long been a male-dominated industry, but the tide is turning—and at FOUND, we’re proud to be part of that shift.

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the powerhouse women on our team who are shaping the industry, breaking down barriers, and proving that real estate isn’t just for the guys.

We sat down with the team to chat about their journeys, the challenges they’ve faced, and how we can all #AccelerateAction for gender equality. Watch the full interviews on our socials, but here’s a sneak peek of what they had to say.

Getting Into Real Estate: By Design or By Chance?

For some, real estate was a lifelong passion. For others, it was a happy accident.

“I’ve always loved property design and interiors, but real estate itself wasn’t planned. I started as a receptionist after school, and the rest is history!” – Amy

“I was in hospitality, and a family friend told me I’d be great in real estate. Turns out, they were right.” – Tay

“I never thought I’d work in real estate! A bad interview at 18 put me off, but meeting Matt for a marketing role at FOUND changed my whole perspective.” – Ash

“I was working in visual merchandising but wanted a career where I could connect with people. Real estate gave me that.” – Bridge

Challenges & The Reality of Being a Woman in Real Estate

It’s no secret that real estate has its biases, and for young women in the industry, imposter syndrome is real.

“In the beginning of my career, some may have underestimated my ability, later realising that I am more than capable and worthy. In my career, I have had unwavering support of women leaders and male allies.” – Hayley

“I literally manage a property that was bought the same year I was born! It can feel intimidating giving advice to long-time investors, but backing myself and my knowledge is key.” – Amy

“Being a younger female, I had to learn to hold my ground, especially when clients asked tough legal questions. Confidence is everything.” – Tay

“The biggest challenge? The underrepresentation of women in leadership. People assume you don’t have experience just because you’re a woman. Finding my voice has been so empowering.” – Bridge

Advice for Women Wanting to Step Into Real Estate

Thinking about a career in real estate? The FOUND team has some solid advice.

“Learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to lean on others in the industry.” – Amy

“Self-belief is key. And don’t take advice from people you wouldn’t switch places with!” – Hayley

“Be picky about where you work! Ask questions in your interview—about training, culture, work-life balance. Trust your gut.” – Ash

“Start in property management or reception before jumping into sales. It’ll give you a stronger foundation.” – Tay

How Can We #AccelerateAction for Gender Equality in Real Estate?

More women in leadership. More mentorship. More visibility.

“I’ve worked in agencies where I was the only female in sales. We need to support women stepping into leadership.” – Bridge

“We need to value people as a whole—not just one aspect they bring to the job.” – Hayley

“I love seeing more and more women leading their own agencies. The shift is happening!” – Ash

Let’s keep the momentum going. The conversation around gender equality in real estate (and beyond) doesn’t end on March 8—it’s an ongoing push for more representation, more leadership opportunities, and a level playing field for all. 

At FOUND, we’re proud to be part of that shift, and we’ll keep showing up, challenging the status quo, and backing the women who are shaping the future of real estate.

Want to be part of the movement? Head to the International Women’s Day website to learn more about this year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, and check out our social posts to hear more from the badass women of FOUND.

Let’s keep pushing forward—because equality isn’t a ‘one day a year’ thing.

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