Breaking Barriers: Black Real Estate Agents Thriving in the Industry Challenges Faced by Black Real Estate Agents Historical Discrimination History of discrimination towards black real estate agents goes back to the early twentieth century when segregation law was prevalent in the United States. These laws prohibited blacks from owning properties in certain areas. This led to limited opportunities for real estate agents of color to thrive in the business. 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.