Breaking Barriers: Black Real Estate Agents Thriving in the Industry Black Real Estate Agents Face a Challenge Historical Discrimination Historical discrimination of black real estate agents began in the early 20th century during the time when segregation policies were prevalent in the United States. These laws prohibited black individuals from owning property in certain areas, leading to limited opportunities for black real estate agents to thrive in the industry. During the time period, black real-estate agents faced many challenges. These included being denied access in certain neighborhoods, discrimination by clients and colleagues of color, and being expelled from professional organizations.