LESLIE APPLETON-YOUNG directs the strategic thinking for the California Association of Realtors, guiding the research and economics team as they collect primary data through survey research, multiple listing services, and other sources to analyze and interpret trends, and foster understanding of the economic and housing market landscape.
She also oversees industry relations for the organization, which is designed to increase the impact of programs, products, and services through strategic relationships with key stakeholders.
Through her work with local state associations, Appleton-Young has conducted strategic planning for associations that represent nearly 22,000 Realtors over the last year.
Appleton-Young was highly involved in the creation of the Housing Affordability Fund, CAR’s philanthropic arm, working with CAR’s political advocacy efforts promoting homeownership for first-time homebuyers and low-to-moderate-income buyers.
Additionally, she and her team are dedicated to engaging women in the leadership of brokerage firms and the industry. Based on CAR’s research, women make up the majority of its membership at 57% and yet are dramatically underrepresented in executive levels of management in the brokerage community. Appleton-Young and her team created the Women’s Initiative to address that gap and create a supportive community for all members.
Appleton-Young also plays a key role in programs such as the 2017 Diversity Inclusion initiative designed to increase Latino homeownership, as well as build relationships with cultural groups in the state while promoting equitable access to homeownership.
