“The idea for Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated throughout the latter half of September and the first half of October, began as a way to promote the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic-Americans. Communities mark the achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans with festivals and educational activities.” Source: National Today
Why does Hispanic Heritage Month start in the middle of the month?
It is the independence anniversary for the Latin American countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Honduras. Also, the independence days of Mexico and Chile fall on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. Dia de la Raza, also known as Columbus Day, falls within this month, on October 12th.
Learn more:
- Everything you need to know about Hispanic Heritage Month (National Geographic)
- Hispanic Heritage Month | National Museum of the American Latino
How to Celebrate in Chicago
Looking for ways to get involved locally? Chicago is full of opportunities to celebrate!
- Pilsen Arts & Community House
- National Museum of Mexican Art
- International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago
- Ensemble Español at Auditorium Theatre
- Latinx Heritage Month at the Field Museum
Find even more citywide events through Choose Chicago’s guide.
Plus, enjoy our Chicago REALTORS® Hispanic Heritage playlist featuring music hand-picked by fellow members!
Spotlight on Hispanic Homeownership
According to NAHREP’s 2024 State of Hispanic Homeownership Report:
- The Hispanic homeownership rate reached 49% in 2024, with 238,000 new households added.
- Today, there are 9.8 million Hispanic-owned households, a number that has steadily risen for over a decade.
- Latinos accounted for 35% of overall U.S. household formation growth in 2024.
- Barriers to homeownership include: rising home prices, affordability challenges, low inventory, higher interest rates, student debt, investor activity and multiple-offer competition.
Growth opportunities include:
- Willingness to move to more affordable markets
- Use of co-borrowers to qualify
- Access to special purpose credit programs
Expanding Access to Homeownership Through Our Forms
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and to better serve Spanish-speaking clients, the Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Representation Agreement is available in Spanish. This translation helps ensure that Spanish-speaking buyers can fully understand the details of the agreement and feel confident when working with their REALTOR®. By offering essential documents in Spanish, we take another step toward greater accessibility, trust and empowerment in the homebuying process.
Download the translated form on our Forms & Contract page.
Celebrating OUR Hispanic Leaders
Immediate Past President ERIKA VILLEGAS
RE/Max In the Village
Director & Foundation trustee MEGAN OSWALD
Coldwell Banker Realty
Director GASPAR FLORES JR.
Su Familia Real Estate, Inc.
Foundation Trustee Sharon Aguilera
Gentium Properties LLC
And Our Past President:
- Northside Real Estate 1988-1989 President Kenny Ortiz
- 1989-1990 West Towns Board President Loretta Alonzo
- 2005-2006 West Towns Board President Margarita Amaro
- 2010-2011 President Mabel Guzman
- 2011 West Towns Board President Juan Del Real
- 2009-2010 President Genie Birch
- 2006-2007 President Alexander Chaparro
- 2023-2024 President Drussy Hernandez
Their work and dedication continue to inspire our membership and industry.
Get to Know Our INdustry Partner nahrep Chicago
We are proud to work alongside NAHREP Chicago, the local chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP).
NAHREP represents over 30,000 members nationwide and is committed to advancing sustainable Hispanic homeownership through:
- Educating and empowering professionals serving Hispanic buyers and sellers
- Advocating for policy that supports equitable housing opportunities
- Connecting industry leaders through events, education and networking
Membership is open to professionals across all real estate sectors and backgrounds. Learn more about NAHREP Chicago here.