Julia Dagistanli Named to NJ’s LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance

ERA Justin is proud to announce its involvement in the creation of the New Jersey chapter of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. Sales Associate Julia Dagistanli has been named the group’s first ever Secretary.

The LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance is a nationwide non-profit with more than 3,100 members and 50 chapters. “The Alliance is dedicated towards eradicating housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity,” says Dagistanli, “I’m proud to be an advocate for this cause.” Dagistanli has been a member of the ERA Justin team in Rutherford since 2002.

The newly formed NJ chapter hosted its inaugural event this month at New Jersey Realtors Headquarters in Trenton. The Lunch and Learn program introduced Julia and the rest of the chapter’s leadership: President Vincent Gray, Vice President Brian Slattery and Director of Membership and Social Media Mikeala Semexant. 

“As a Realtor, I strive to help all people realize their real estate dreams,” says Gray, “As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about making sure under-served and often discriminated members of our society receive the fair treatment they deserve.” Gray is part of the John Wuertz Team at Berkshire Hathaway which serves central and southern NJ. 

ERA Justin Broker/Owner Jennifer Darby Metzger joined Dagistanli in Trenton for the event. “The LGBTQ+ homeownership rate is under 50% nationwide. We at ERA Justin hope to be a key part in raising that number here in New Jersey.”

The Alliance reports housing discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community begins long before their renting and home buying process begins. “It starts as far back as high school,” says national spokesperson David Siroty, “35% of Alliance members say bullying and discrimination impacted their academic performance and thus their earning potential later in life.”

Guest speakers at the event included the mayor of Trenton, Reed Gusciora and Robert White, 2022 New Jersey Realtors president. White has been an active member of the Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors since 2002 and is also part of the LGBTQ+ community. He lives in Ocean Township with his husband of 25 years, Andrew DePrisco.

If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and looking for a home, Julia or any of our agents can help. Give us a call at (201) 939-7500.