The Gateway to the West just became a new gateway for opportunity, equity, and generational wealth. As of early 2025, the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) officially launched its first Missouri chapter, right here in St. Louis. With a mission to increase sustainable Hispanic homeownership and empower real estate professionals of all backgrounds, NAHREP Saint Louis isn’t just making history—it’s reshaping the future.

At the helm is Rosalyn Luna, Founding President of NAHREP Saint Louis, who saw an urgent need for representation and action. “Saint Louis has a lot of history and diversity, which we feel is incredibly important. Homeownership is a pillar of the Hispanic community, and we’re seeing more families relocate here from cities on the coasts because Saint Louis offers opportunity and affordability,” Rosalyn explains.

And the numbers back her up. For two consecutive years, St. Louis has ranked as the #1 opportunity market in NAHREP’s Hispanic Homeownership Report, driven by affordable housing, rising median incomes, and a growing Latino population.

The idea took shape with Megan Munoz, now Vice President of the chapter. In late 2022, while representing the St. Louis REALTORS® at an event, a colleague mentioned NAHREP. “I had never heard of it,” Megan recalls. “I looked it up, contacted corporate, and they sent me a packet on how to start a chapter.”

What followed was a flurry of networking, outreach, and determination. “I knew I needed more than just a few people. Missouri has over 20,000 REALTORS®, so I started building relationships at state conferences. One of my friends introduced me to Rosalyn, and from there, everything blossomed. Rosalyn is way more organized than I am,” she adds with a laugh. “Our board is so dedicated—it’s been a true team effort.”

Officially launched in November 2024, NAHREP Saint Louis aims to become The Voice for Hispanic Homeownership—a cultural and economic milestone for the region.

Jhoana Kerley, a top-ranked lender with USA Mortgage and one of NAHREP’s top 250 nationwide, emphasizes the region’s potential. “St. Louis is still a very economical city. It’s easier for people to become homeowners here. We’re seeing both newly relocated families and second- and third-generation immigrants thriving.”

Between 2022 and 2023, the Latino population in St. Louis grew by 14.4%, adding over 30,000 foreign-born residents. And that shift isn’t limited to Latinos—St. Louis’s immigrant-friendly infrastructure has been a key driver in helping families settle and succeed.

But it’s not just about attracting new residents—it’s about keeping them. “Retention is key,” Megan says. “Strengthening the Latino community through homeownership is what sets our initiatives apart.”

NAHREP Saint Louis not only supports community growth, but also helps real estate professionals expand their business. Jonathan Pinzon, Government Affairs Director and a lender with US Bank, regularly speaks at chapter events. “It helps me connect with other talented vendor partners throughout the area,” he says.

NAHREP Saint Louis is open to everyone. “This organization is for anyone who wants to grow their business and connect with the fastest-growing segment of new homebuyers,” says Rosalyn. “By 2040, 70% of new homebuyers in the U.S. will be of Hispanic descent. The time to build relationships and cultural competency is now.”

Treasurer Evren Senol, originally from Cyprus, joined the board in early 2023. “The numbers tell anyone that NAHREP makes good business sense,” he affirms.

And the chapter proudly highlights the rise of Latina entrepreneurs. “Latinas are the largest group of entrepreneurs in the country,” notes Jhoana. “We’ve watched our mothers create something from nothing. That resilience is part of who we are.”

Stephanie Fobian, an early board member and thriving REALTOR®, comes from a family of successful restaurateurs. A recent chapter photo shoot took place in one of their newest establishments, the stunning Mexican Barrel House. Board Secretary Fabi Meyer, originally from Brazil, runs her own transaction coordination business and also comes from an entrepreneurial family. “Taking chances is part of our culture,” she says.

With membership dues of just $49 annually, NAHREP Saint Louis offers some of the most affordable trade membership benefits in the country. Members gain access to a vendor list, discounted tickets to local events, professional development resources, and more.

Signature programming includes a Top 250 Panel in September, homebuyer seminars, mixers, and hands-on educational workshops. “We want our events to reflect the best of St. Louis,” says the board. “Our mission is to ensure that all voices are heard and that everyone has a seat at the table.”

NAHREP Saint Louis holds open monthly board meetings for members who may want to step into leadership. Interested in joining the movement? Reach out and become part of the momentum.

As Rosalyn puts it, “We’re here for the community. We’re here to build wealth. And we’re here to represent what’s possible.”

Whether you're a real estate agent, lender, or vendor, one thing is clear: The NAHREP Saint Louis Chapter has arrived—and it’s just getting started.