Breaking another taboo, women brokers lead the charge in Delhi
Female brokers are rising in a traditionally male-dominated industry
In the highly competitive real estate market in the capital, Delhi, a new trend is taking shape as more women enter the field as brokers, challenging what has hitherto been a male-dominated industry.
These female professionals are redefining real estate with a personal touch, focusing on safety and trust, particularly for female clients. Their presence is not just changing the dynamics of buying or renting homes, but also providing a secure and supportive environment for women.
One of the early starters in the field is Reshma Sahani, a 45-year-old woman broker from Lajpat Nagar in South Delhi, who is transforming the real estate landscape with her innovative and client-focused approach.
Before stepping into the world of real estate, Sahani spent years working in a boutique, where she became a confidante for many women who frequented her store. It was here, amidst casual conversations about fashion, that she first encountered the pressing concerns of her client-turned-friends, which would ultimately lead her to a transformative career change. The pivotal moment came when a seemingly routine chat with a customer revealed a deeper, more urgent need one that Sahani could not ignore.
“I spent years working in a boutique, immersed in a lively environment with a steady flow of young women seeking the latest fashion and engaging conversation. Over time, I began to notice a recurring question from these women. ‘Is there any flat available nearby?’ It was a question that seemed to reflect a deeper need for a sense of stability and community. One day, a particularly poignant conversation with a client turned my world upside down,” Sahani tells Media India Group.
“This woman confided in me, saying she felt uncomfortable consulting male brokers. She recounted a harrowing experience where a male broker had tried to force himself on her during a property viewing. The trauma of that encounter had left her wary of all male brokers,” she adds.
Hearing this, Sahani was struck by a realisation. “I knew I had to step up and create a safe space for women in real estate. That moment ignited a fire within me to become a broker not only facilitates home buying but also offers security and trust. I wanted to ensure that no woman would have to face what she did,” Sahani adds.
With an Master’s degree in Commerce, Sahani transitioned into the real estate sector, dedicating herself exclusively to helping female clients. Her focus was not just on selling properties, it was also about creating a supportive environment where women feel comfortable and valued. From homemakers to working professionals, Sahani’s clientele spans a diverse spectrum of women seeking new homes.
“Starting as a part-time broker, I transitioned to full-time work because I wanted to address a pressing need I saw in my community. Leaving my boutique was not just a career shift, it was a conscious decision driven by a deep-seated desire to help women feel safe. In a world where women face fears and insecurities at home, in their workplaces, and in public spaces, I wanted to create a haven for them in the real estate market. My experience at the boutique taught me that the safety of women is a serious concern. Every day, women grapple with the reality of not feeling secure, and it struck me that this fear extends even to something as fundamental as finding a new home,” Sahani adds.
In her journey from boutique worker to full-time real estate broker, Sahani has dedicated herself to addressing the unique needs and concerns of her female clients.
“I have made it my mission to offer a sanctuary of trust and security. I personally accompany my female clients during property viewings, ensuring that they feel supported and safe throughout the process. My commitment goes beyond merely facilitating a transaction, it is about providing peace of mind. I believe that every woman deserves to feel confident and secure when making such an important decision. By exclusively working with female clients, I strive to build a professional relationship grounded in understanding and empathy. This approach not only helps my clients feel more comfortable but also reinforces my dedication to their well-being. My goal is to offer a safe and reassuring experience, reflecting my belief that women should be able to make decisions about their homes without added fear or anxiety. This is more than a job for me, it is a mission to empower and protect women in their journey toward finding a safe and welcoming home,” Sahani adds.
Her work has not only been about transactions but also about transformation. She understands that for many women, buying a home is more than a financial decision, it is a step towards security and independence.
Just like Sahani, Aarti Devi, a 52-year-old broker from Mayur Vihar, is also at the forefront of this transformative shift in the real estate industry. With her extensive experience, Devi emphasises the critical importance of fostering safe and supportive environments for women throughout the home-buying process.
“Even though I don’t have a formal education or even experience in a formal office environment, I have managed to carve out a place for myself in this field by focusing on what truly matters, providing safety and trust to my female clients. In a world where women often feel vulnerable and exposed, I have dedicated my efforts to offering a secure and supportive environment for them. I might not have the credentials that others boast, but my years of experience and my deep understanding of the unique challenges women face in real estate transactions speak volumes,” Devi tells Media India Group.
“My work extends beyond the mere logistics of buying or selling properties. The respect and recognition I have earned are not based on my formal qualifications but on my genuine commitment to helping my clients navigate this often daunting world. I guide them through every step with empathy and care, ensuring they have the reassurance they need in what can be a very unsettling process. It is incredibly rewarding to see how, despite not fitting the conventional mould, I can still make a significant impact by being a trusted ally,” she adds.
In a field where trust and integrity are paramount, Devi stands out as a dedicated professional committed to empowering women in real estate. Her approach to brokerage goes beyond mere transactions, she is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to support her clients, her mission is not just about closing deals but about creating a safe and respectful environment for every woman she assists.
“My mission is clear, to offer support and to ensure that every woman who seeks my help feels secure and respected. In a world where dangers and deceit can be all too real, I strive to be a example of trust and compassion for all the women I work with,” Devi adds.
In a city where the skyline is constantly changing, Sahani and Devi, stands out as an inspiration of innovation and compassion, proving that sometimes, the most significant changes start with a simple, empathetic idea.
