A Thanksgiving Reflection: The History of Real Estate & Why We’re Proud to Be Part of It

A Thanksgiving Reflection:

The History of Real Estate & Why We’re Proud to Be Part of It

For many of us, Thanksgiving is a moment to pause — to look around the table, the home, and the community we’re part of — and recognize the journey that brought us here.

In real estate, that journey is long and remarkable. As we gather with family and friends this season, we wanted to reflect on the history of our industry and why we’re deeply grateful to serve North Texas families every single day.

🕰️A Brief History of Real Estate —

And How Every Era Shaped the Way We Serve You Today

1908: A New Profession Is Born

The National Association of Real Estate Exchanges (now NAR) was founded, creating the first ethical standards and bringing professionalism to a fast-growing field.

What caused this change:
Real estate was expanding rapidly, but without consistent rules, families were at risk of unfair practices. Communities needed protection — and the industry rose to the challenge. Leaders established a formal code of ethics to ensure honesty, fairness, and dignity for anyone seeking a home.

Why it matters:
It marked the beginning of real estate as a trusted service — not just a business — focused on safeguarding the public.

1930s–1950s: The Modern Home Era

After the Great Depression and WWII, homeownership became a defining part of the American dream. Suburbs grew, financing evolved, and millions of families stepped into homes of their own.

What caused this change:
Americans were rebuilding their lives and futures. Government-backed loans and new development models made homeownership possible for everyday working families — not just a select few.

Why it matters:
These years shaped the neighborhoods, schools, parks, and communities we still cherish today. Homeownership offered stability, pride, and a foundation for generations to build upon.

1960s–1980s: Consumer Protection & Fair Housing

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 reshaped the industry, regulating discrimination and expanding equal access to housing for all.

What caused this change:
Longstanding discriminatory practices divided communities and restricted opportunity. The Civil Rights Movement brought these injustices to light, and the nation demanded change. Lawmakers responded with new protections, and real estate professionals embraced a broader responsibility to advocate for fairness.

Why it matters:
This shift helped create more inclusive, diverse neighborhoods and reaffirmed that everyone deserves a place to belong. It strengthened consumer trust and elevated the role of agents as ethical guides.

1990s–Early 2000s: Technology Arrives

Real estate entered the information age. Digital MLS systems, online listings, virtual tours, and consumer search tools changed how homes were bought and sold.

What caused this change:
The internet transformed how people explored options and made decisions. Families wanted transparency — photos, pricing history, neighborhood data — instantly. The industry modernized quickly to meet those expectations.

Why it matters:
Greater access empowered consumers, but it also increased complexity. Real estate professionals became strategic advisors, helping clients interpret information, navigate negotiations, and make confident decisions in fast-moving markets.

Today: A Human-Centered Industry

Even with AI, algorithms, and digital platforms, one truth remains:
Buying or selling a home is one of the most personal decisions a family makes.
Real estate is still — and will always be — a people-first profession.
Not a transaction. A relationship.

What caused this change:
Technology made searching easier, but it didn’t make choices easier. Markets shift quickly. Options feel overwhelming. Life changes are emotional. Clients need clarity, reassurance, and someone who understands the real-life weight behind a move.

Why it matters:
Today’s real estate professionals blend data with empathy and strategy with support. We guide people through life transitions — not just paperwork. And that’s why we’re honored to be part of every chapter our clients begin.

🙏Why We’re Grateful to Serve Collin County

As the real estate industry continues to evolve, our team at Cindy Coggins Realty Group carries forward a simple belief:

Homes are where people build their lives — and helping families move into the next chapter is an honor, not a job.

Every day in North Texas, we meet:
• first-time buyers searching for a fresh start
• growing families who finally need more space
• downsizers stepping into a simpler lifestyle
• investors building long-term wealth
• business owners expanding into new commercial opportunities

Each story is different.
Each one matters.

And each one reminds us why we’re grateful for the trust our clients place in us.

We’re Thankful for...

⭐ 1. The families we’ve served

From Allen to Frisco, McKinney to Prosper, every closing, every conversation, and every set of keys handed over comes with a story we’re privileged to be part of.

⭐ 2. The communities we work in

Collin County is more than a market — it's a collection of neighborhoods that care about quality of life, growth, and connection.

⭐ 3. The opportunity to guide, not pressure

We’re proud to build an environment of honesty, education, and clarity.
Clients deserve information, options, and a calm advocate in their corner.

⭐ 4. The trust our clients give us

No single moment in real estate is small.
Every decision impacts a future — and we don’t take that lightly.

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving season, whether you’re gathering in a new home, a home filled with years of memories, or somewhere in between, we hope it brings warmth, rest, and connection. Thank you for being part of our story, for trusting us with yours, and for allowing our team to walk beside you in one of life’s biggest decisions.

From our family to yours —
Happy Thanksgiving from Cindy Coggins Realty Group.

📞 Call or Text: (469) 499-7452
📧 Email:  cindycoggins@kw.com