6 Books That Will Change Your Perspective on Real Estate

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So many books—and audiobooks, podcasts, TV shows, streaming services, Tik Tok videos, etc.—so little time. In a world with overwhelming options, sometimes you just need someone to tell you what to read. Have no fear, your librarian is here!

The National Association of REALTORS® is home to the world’s largest real estate library, including a collection of over 10,000 e-books. Emily Swenson, NAR’s reference and engagement librarian, has curated a collection of new titles that will inspire your business, and they’re all available through the NAR Library & Archives.

For the History Buff

Red Hot City: Housing, Race, and Exclusion in Twenty-First Century Atlanta(link is external)

Dan Immergluck, professor of urban studies at Georgia State University, explores what happens when “growth-at-all-costs planning” transforms Atlanta, a city experiencing rapid—and unequal—economic expansion. The inner city and the suburbs have flipped as low-income residents and people of color are being pushed farther out of Atlanta. Immergluck provides a look into past housing policies that have affected this outcome while also providing a path to a future of more equitable, livable cities.  

For the Technophile

Virtual Society: The Metaverse and the New Frontiers of Human Experience(link is external)

Whether you think it’s a game or the future of real estate investing, everyone has an opinion on the metaverse. Herman Narula, CEO of tech firm Improbable Worlds Limited, makes a compelling argument that the metaverse could greatly enrich our lives. He says the metaverse not only scratches people’s itch for creation and connection but also is a model of what the future may look like.  

For the Interior Designer

The New Design Rules: How to Decorate and Renovate, from Start to Finish(link is external)

Part DIY manual and part interior design handbook, The New Design Rules by Emily Henderson provide readers with an approachable guide to making home design decisions. Henderson advises readers on room layout, window and wall finishes, and when to DIY or call in the professionals. The book includes gorgeous photographs of modern, trendy, and timeless decor; it’s the perfect gift for your friends and clients.

For the Storyteller

AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home(link is external)

AphroChic, which will be released Nov. 14, is an all-encompassing read exploring design, race, history, and what it means to be home. Authors Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason take readers on a journey through time, from Reconstruction to the modern day, examining and celebrating Black homeownership. Beautiful photography captures the wide array of design influences, from ancestral homages to influential street artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. AphroChic tells the story of the many obstacles to Black homeownership in America and how heritage informs home design.  

For the Daydreamer

If You Could Live Anywhere: The Surprising Importance of Place in a Work-from-Anywhere World(link is external) 

Remote work has had a huge impact on homebuying decisions, as commutes are no longer necessary for many. Author Melody Warnick explores what happens when office location isn’t a factor in the home search and provides decision-making advice for those who may not have considered their newfound freedom.

For the Rookie

Marketing that Moves People: How Real Estate Agents Can Build a Brand, Find Fans, Land Leads, & Communicate Convincingly(link is external)

Building a brand, especially in the age of social media, is one of the best moves an agent can make to set themselves apart from the competition. But where is a new agent to start? REALTOR® Shelley Zavitz knows that for most in the real estate business, marketing is self-taught. Her advice is to avoid gimmicks and build a base of loyal clients by being your authentic self. While that is certainly easier said than done, Zavitz reveals her secret system to help you build your brand and client base from scratch.

Access these and the rest of the NAR Library & Archives’ e-book collection here(link is external) (login required). Use Libby(link is external) to read them on any mobile device. If you have any questions or need e-book assistance, please email librarians@nar.realtor(link sends e-mail).