LGBTQ+ Realtors® Foster Inclusive Communities

June marks Pride Month, and PAR is commemorating LGBTQ+ Realtors® by sharing their journeys in real estate and highlighting the ways they’re helping their communities.  

Brian Larson, Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh 

“I became a Realtor® because I’m passionate about helping people make informed, confident decisions during one of the most important milestones of their lives: buying or selling a home,” says Brian Larson, a Realtor® for nine years. 

“I wanted a career where I could combine my love for Pittsburgh, my problem-solving skills and my drive to serve others. Real estate allows me to advocate for clients, provide clarity through complex processes and be a steady, trusted guide from start to finish.” 

Larson has served on RAMP’s Board of Directors since 2022 and PAR’s Board of Directors since 2024. 

“Real estate has been a life-changing journey,” he adds. “It’s given me the freedom to build a business that reflects who I am: driven, community-focused and client-first. I’ve developed strong relationships, deepened my knowledge of the region I love and found real purpose in helping people create home. It’s also opened doors to leadership and advocacy, allowing me to serve beyond transactions and shape the industry I’m proud to be part of.” 

“Representation matters, especially in housing, where feeling safe is essential,” Larson emphasizes. “When LGBTQ+ clients see themselves reflected in the professionals they work with, it fosters trust and transparency. As a gay Realtor®, I know firsthand the value of affirming, inclusive service. Our industry should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, because everyone deserves to feel welcomed, respected and protected throughout their homeownership journey.” 

“Our industry should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, because everyone deserves to feel welcomed, respected and protected throughout their homeownership journey.”

Christy Bergen, Luzerne County Association of Realtors® 

Christy Bergen has been a Realtor® for four years and currently serves on the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, Eastern Chapter’s Board of Directors. 

“When I bought my first house, it was a sense of pride and a commitment to stability,” she recalls. “I became a Realtor® because I wanted to help others achieve that and feel the same way.” 

“Real estate challenged me to grow as a leader, sharpen my instincts and build a business rooted in trust and community. It gave me the opportunity to empower others, advocate for fair housing and champion diversity in an industry that still has room to grow.” 

“Representation in real estate isn’t just important – it’s essential,” Bergen advocates. “As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I know firsthand the power of being seen, heard and understood. Buying or selling a home is deeply personal, and everyone deserves to navigate that journey with someone who respects their identity, protects their rights and understands their lived experience.” 

“When LGBTQ+ professionals are visible in this industry, it sends as powerful message: you belong here. It creates safter, more inclusive spaces – not just for clients, but for future agents and leaders, too. We’re not just selling homes. We’re helping shape communities where everyone can feel safe, valued and proud to live and love.”

“Real estate challenged me to grow as a leader, sharpen my instincts and build a business rooted in trust and community.”

Joe Weltner, Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh 

“I became a Realtor® because I needed a career change that would allow me to use my skills, but also to help people make one of the most difficult and expensive decisions of their life,” says Joe Weltner. 

Weltner, who’s been a Realtor® for 10 years, served on the Greater Allegheny-Kiski Area Board of Realtors Board of Directors from 2016 to 2022 and has been on RAMP’s Board of Directors since 2023. 

How has real estate changed his life? 

“The amount of knowledge I have obtained, especially while working on my broker’s license, has been incredible,” he answers. “Also, being my own boss and dictating my schedule is a huge life balance element.” 

“Representation has always been important, but now more than ever!” Weltner says. “Every person deserves to be treated equally and to have an advisor with their best interest at heart, no matter what life they choose. Their Realtor® needs to have the skillset to help them navigate their specific situation and also have contacts in the community that will treat them fairly, with respect and decency.” 

“Every person deserves to be treated equally and to have an advisor with their best interest at heart, no matter what life they choose.”

Ife Foy, Tri-County Suburban Realtors® 

Real estate wasn’t initially on the radar for Ife Foy. They were working as a freelance and professional actor and teaching art in addition to a full-time job when a friend suggested getting licensed. 

“Deep down, I was unhappy as an artist working 60+ hours a week with little to nothing to show for it,” Foy says. “I wanted a better quality of life for myself and my family, and I wanted to impact people in positive ways that felt more direct and one-on-one.” 

“So, I took a leap of faith! I decided to take the course, take the exam and see where it took me. Fast forward seven years, and I continue to be a Realtor® because I love helping people from all walks of life navigate the complexities of buying and selling real estate to improve their lives.” 

“Real estate has granted me the privilege of serving over 100 people across multiple communities. It has allowed me to help provide affordable housing to people who live in a city I love. It’s afforded me the opportunity to live my life on my own terms while helping and serving others along the way.” 

“It’s important to see LGBTQ+ representation in the real estate industry, because consumers need more professionals who will combat discrimination, ensure fair and inclusive practices, help folks understand how to create financial stability and access homeownership – a tool for building wealth – while validating consumers’ identities, experiences and emotions in the real estate world,” Foy concludes.

“Real estate has allowed me to help provide affordable housing to people who live in a city I love.”