On the 13th episode of PNW Mike Check, Mike and Sofia sit down with OB Jacobi, President of Windermere Real Estate to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

OB started his career in real estate, but diverted slightly when he traveled to Europe and came back to an empty space available for lease. Like anyone would do in their 20’s he decided to open up a bar. It wasn’t until he was 25 that he joined the family business, Windermere Real Estate. As a new recruit to the family business OB worked in almost every job possible, learning the ins and outs of everything Windermere. Now he oversees Windermere growth in 10 states and has played a huge role in growing Windermere into one of the largest and most respected real estate brands in the country. 

Talking about diversity, equity, and inclusion, OB reflects back to 2020 during the time following the murder of George Floyd. This is when the company took a step back and thought about how they can effectively make a difference in the space of real estate. This prompted Windermere to form committees to help guide the company through positive change. 

In the interview, Mike stated that Windermere was quick to take a leadership role back in 2020, and OB pointed out that Windermere was actually quick to state what was in their heart. “This is a human issue and is about human kindness, which is what Windermere stands for.”

Within their efforts to make a difference in the world of real estate, Windermere has partnered with Home Sight, a community development investment company. They worked with Home Sight to create a down payment assistance program, which they call the “donut hole of need” which helps families that make 80-120% of the median income. OB explains that families in this income bracket can usually afford a home payment but saving for the down payment is difficult. What was initially supposed to be a $100,000 fund is now going to be raising $200-300k each year. And the most amazing part of this program is when these families pay the money back it goes back into the fund to help other families in need. 

Through every level of Windermere, the impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion is being considered both in the present decisions and how they will affect the future. We are proud to be part of a company that has built into the fabric of their organization the kindness to approach what is going on in the world, but also the insight to look inwards and always keep improving. 

To learn more about the programs and initiatives Windermere is working on listen to OB’s complete interview below or click here: https://www.windermere.com/dei

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