Vaidra K. Johnson is the Owner of Build A Legacy Real Estate, Inc. Read her story as this month’s #BlackBusinessMonth Feature!
“My inspiration for pursuing a career in real estate stems from my passion for helping people find their ideal homes. The real estate industry offers the opportunity to be my own boss, set my own schedule, and have a direct impact on my financial future by building generational wealth. I am excited by the dynamic nature of the industry, with its shifting market trends and opportunities, as I thrive on challenges and am driven by growth potential.
“In terms of services, my business offers a range— including home buying and selling, home valuations, property listings, first-time buyer assistance, credit assistance, and home renovation and repair.”
Moreover, real estate allows me to be creative in problem-solving, whether through negotiating deals, marketing properties, or finding innovative ways to meet my clients' needs. The opportunity to build lifelong relationships and play a key role in significant life decisions is incredibly fulfilling. For many, the combination of a love for properties and a desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives makes real estate a perfect fit, which is why I’m proud to be part of this industry.
As a Black business owner, I have encountered challenges that have tested my resilience and determination. Overcoming systemic barriers in the business world, from securing capital to facing biases, has been a tough journey. However, these obstacles have fueled my growth and success.
Access to funding has been one of the biggest hurdles. Traditional financial institutions often impose stringent requirements that are difficult for minority-owned businesses to meet. To overcome this, I sought alternative funding sources such as community-based lenders, grants, and crowdfunding. Building a strong network of mentors and allies who understood my unique challenges was also crucial. Their guidance and connections helped open doors.
Combating stereotypes and biases has presented another challenge. As a Black business owner, I often had to work harder to prove my credibility. I focused on delivering exceptional service, building a reputation for excellence, and staying ahead of industry trends to provide the best value for my clients.
Community support has been vital in overcoming these challenges. By fostering strong relationships within my community and supporting other Black-owned businesses, I created a network of mutual support that helped push through barriers and create new opportunities. These experiences have shaped me as an entrepreneur and deepened my commitment to paving the way for others in the Black business community.
One of the most memorable moments in my real estate career was selling my first million-dollar property through Build a Legacy Real Estate. What made this achievement even more special was that every party involved in the transaction was African American—the lender, buyer, seller, agent, and settlement attorney. This wasn’t just a business deal; it was a full-circle moment that held deep significance. Reflecting on the history of Black Americans in real estate—from the days of redlining and discriminatory practices that prevented us from owning homes to now facilitating a high-value transaction with an entirely Black team—felt truly empowering. It was a testament to how far we’ve come and the progress we continue to make.
This transaction wasn’t merely about selling a property; it was about breaking barriers and "building a legacy." It reminded me why I entered the real estate industry—to create opportunities, build generational wealth, and uplift my community. Witnessing everyone involved succeed in their roles was a powerful experience, reinforcing my commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership and financial independence. This success story is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of collective progress.
A few interesting facts about me are:
Certified Minority and Women-Owned: Build A Legacy Real Estate is proudly certified as both a minority-owned and women-owned business in Delaware.
Husband and Wife Team: The business is run by a dynamic husband and wife team, bringing a unique and cohesive approach to real estate.
Family Involvement: It’s a family affair, with our kids actively involved in shadowing us during home tours and open houses, making it a true family business.
To aspiring Black entrepreneurs, my advice is to embrace your unique perspective and use it as a strength. Build a strong support network of mentors and allies who understand your journey. Seek out alternative funding sources and remain persistent in overcoming barriers. Focus on delivering exceptional service, and continuously educate yourself to stay ahead in your field. Engage with and support your community, as collective strength can open new opportunities. Most importantly, remain resilient and passionate about your vision. Your determination and hard work will pave the way for your success and inspire others to follow.”.
“Real estate offers a world of limitless opportunities! Whether you’re helping a family find their dream home or guiding a business through a significant investment, real estate allows you to shape your career in countless ways.”