Gender Dynamics in Real Estate Entrepreneurship: Empowering FemRestate for Sustainable Development
- For policymakers
- Summary created: 2024
This study explores the gender dynamics in Pakistan’s real estate sector through the lens of intersectional feminist economics, focusing on systemic barriers such as cultural norms, financial exclusion, and gender biases. It introduces the FemRestate framework to promote gender equality and empowerment within real estate entrepreneurship.
The real estate sector is a vital component of Pakistan’s economy but remains dominated by men, with women significantly underrepresented in leadership and ownership roles. Cultural norms, legal barriers, and limited access to financial resources restrict women’s participation, despite their substantial contributions to household decision-making. The research emphasizes that these systemic barriers are deeply entrenched in institutional structures and societal values, creating a challenging environment for women entrepreneurs.
The study introduces the “FemRestate” framework, a model grounded in feminist economics, aimed at deconstructing traditional gender roles and power structures within the real estate sector. It seeks to leverage technology, policy interventions, and mentorship to empower women and foster sustainable development. By examining how women navigate these barriers and the transformative potential of the FemRestate model, the research contributes to the discourse on gender equality, economic empowerment, and inclusive growth. The study also links women’s empowerment in real estate to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly gender equality and sustainable cities.
Key findings
Systemic gender biases continue to hinder women’s participation in real estate entrepreneurship.
Evidence
The analysis of five blogs consistently highlighted cultural norms, exclusion from financial decisions, and limited property rights as key barriers. Barai (2023) noted that "Women are excluded from key financial decisions due to societal perceptions," reinforcing male dominance in leadership and ownership.
What it means
These biases perpetuate male dominance in real estate, limiting women’s participation and leadership opportunities, and reinforcing structural inequalities.
Technology empowers women by facilitating independent real estate transactions.
Evidence
Four of the five blogs recognized platforms like Zameen.com and Pakwheels.com as crucial tools for women. Barai (2023) observed, "Platforms like Zameen.com have revolutionized the sector by giving women access to market data," allowing them to bypass traditional male gatekeepers.
What it means
These platforms provide women with greater autonomy and access to critical market information, reducing reliance on male intermediaries and promoting economic agency.
Mentorship is essential for advancing women’s leadership in real estate, but opportunities are scarce
Evidence
Three blogs (Barai, 2023; Zahid, 2023; Butt, 2016) discussed the limited availability of structured mentorship programs. Barai (2023) noted, "While mentorship programs exist in some organizations, many women still struggle to find mentors who can guide them," highlighting a critical gap in support for women pursuing leadership roles.
What it means
The lack of accessible mentorship opportunities hinders women’s ability to rise to leadership positions, exacerbating the gender gap in the sector.
Gender diversity in leadership improves business outcomes and aligns with sustainable development goals.
Evidence
Three blogs (Zahid, 2023; Barai, 2023; Team051, 2023) linked gender diversity to better governance and financial performance. Barai (2023) stated, "Women in leadership contribute to better decision-making and improved financial outcomes," aligning with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
What it means
Encouraging women’s leadership enhances business performance and supports SDGs, leading to more resilient and equitable urban environments.
Digital platforms enable professional networking and development for women in real estate.
Evidence
In three blogs, online platforms were highlighted as crucial for women’s professional development (Team051, 2023; Butt, 2016; Zahid, 2023). Butt (2016) mentioned, "Women are using platforms like Zameen.com to network and make informed property decisions."
What it means
These platforms bridge the gap in networking opportunities, providing women with resources and connections previously inaccessible, thus enhancing their professional growth.
Cultural norms remain a significant barrier to women's progress in real estate, even with technology.
Evidence
Four of the five blogs (Zahid, 2023; Barai, 2023; ProPakistani, 2023; Butt, 2016) stressed that cultural expectations still limit women’s roles in leadership. Zahid (2023) remarked, "Technology cannot fully overcome societal expectations regarding gender roles."
What it means
While technology offers critical tools for empowerment, deep-rooted cultural norms continue to impede women’s advancement, particularly in leadership and decision-making roles.
Proposed action
Large real estate firms can initiate structured mentorship programs to guide and support women entering the industry
Promote gender-inclusive policies and leadership accountability to enhance diversity
Unconscious biases must be removed by fostering a culture of inclusion
Technology-enabled solutions to address gender disparities and empower women in the real estate sector
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