Diversity has always been a defining characteristic of the U.S., a country built by people of all backgrounds and circumstances. Over the past few decades, however, the melting pot of America has been bubbling over with multicultural growth, a trend that is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

This diversity boom brings a vast market of homebuyers and sellers teeming with new business potential. Minorities will comprise over 75 percent of new household growth between 2010 and 2020, and almost 90 percent from 2020 and 2030. Now more than ever, diversity education is vital in not only avoiding discriminatory real estate practices, but building a business plan that attracts these growing markets.

At Home With Diversity (AHWD) is an NAR certification course that equips real estate professionals with the tools and knowledge to serve the growing number of diverse buyers and sellers. The course teaches agents about diversity and its impact on the real estate industry, building an inclusive business plan, and how to earn the confidence of all potential clients.

As the presence of an ethnic majority in the U.S. disappears, so will English being the predominant language. Right now, there are more Spanish speakers in the U.S. than Spain. By 2050, the U.S. will have the largest Spanish speaking population in the world. Bilingual agents will soon be able to serve all types of English and Spanish speaking clients with AHWD in Spanish, an entirely Spanish language edition of the online course.

Diversity is defined by the quality of being different, however, as different becomes more common, it’s important to remember that inclusion is key to working effectively within it. Investing in diversity education will ensure each and every client is served with the same level of professionalism. For more information about At Home With Diversity, check out www.nar.realtor/ahwd or email ahwd@realtors.org. Stay tuned for the launch of AHWD in Spanish at www.onlinelearning.realtor.