As Real Estate Agents, we learn & hear from successful women in the industry from all regions of the country all the time. Specifically, here at Compass, we have the privilege of learning from our CEO Robert Reffkin’s mom, Ruth Reffkin, and her journey to success. Read on for some pieces of her story in the real estate world, and how she has inspired hundreds, and even thousands, of agents all across the country.
Born in Israel, Ruth moved to New York City with her family in 1952. Later on, she moved out to California, bought a house with a group of friends, and went back to school for early childhood education. After going back to school, Ruth bought a house and turned the first floor into a pre-school known as The Unicorn School.
She then had Robert and raised him as a single mother, all while running her own business. Ruth mentioned “I could not afford to send my son to my own program,” and that is when she made the transition to New York Life Insurance, where she worked as an insurance agent, and then manager - becoming the third woman to ever become a manager at the company.
We heard Ruth’s story first-hand during her visit to our Boston office in late fall. Her real estate story started when Robert convinced her to search for 2 bedroom apartments in New York City, where he could live, and she could stay when she visited him. After touring the properties, she felt slightly disappointed in the presentation of the homes by the agents. Later that day, Robert asked Ruth why she didn't become an agent herself and set a higher standard than what she had experienced that day in NYC. And so, she did.
Now, as a Realtor, Ruth is known for the compassion she has finding clients their home & their place in the world. Her experiences at other companies, and her unmatched level of client service, is what built the very foundations of Compass. Ruth’s story is not only inspiring to the agents & employees of Compass, but to women, men, single mothers, Realtors, and children alike who either closely relate to her story, or just admire her for her immense hard work. This International Women’s Month, we recognize Ruth for her commitment to success and her dedicated compassion for all of those around her.
