Kimberly Brown, a South-Central Los Angeles native, has built a career defined by her advocacy, unprecedented innovation, and transformational vision within the realm of real estate.
Born into a family that broke barriers by purchasing a home just after redlining practices had started to lift in 1962, Kimberly’s passion for community and housing preservation began at home.
“My 91-year-old mother is still living in that home 62 years later,” Kimberly shared with the Sentinel.
“I credit her for why I am now using my passion, influence and network to develop and acquire housing to preserve affordability in our historically underestimated communities through Housing Impact Partners.”
Kimberly is the current president of the Los Angeles chapter of the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP L.A.), a managing partner with Housing Impact Partners, and a renowned broker who has managed investor relationships and sourced transactional opportunities, overseeing more than 75 million square feet of commercial real estate nationwide during her career.
Kimberly’s leadership has solidified AAREP L.A. as a vital force in Los Angeles, growing its membership to over 300 and hosting 17 activations in 2024 alone.
“I often say I serve AAREP L.A.,” she reflected. “Our network has driven economic parity, fostered countless collaborations, and created opportunities for Black professionals to thrive.”
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A strong network played a significant role in Kimberly’s own advancement within the industry.
“While I have had a select few individuals I could turn to for advice, I found even greater value in having sponsors—high-level executives who would advocate for me, often without being asked,” she admitted.
“This advocacy played a significant role in shaping my journey by providing me with substantial exposure in the institutional and private equity sectors and capital markets on a national level.”
Through these experiences, Kimberly gained a deep understanding of systemic barriers that hinder Black homeownership and wealth building.
“The issue is systemic. Preventing families from owning property has denied them access to financial stability, educational opportunities, and the ability to transfer wealth to future generations.”
Filling this void is the mission for Kimberly Brown, Sherri Franklin, and Carlton Jenkins, the founding trio of Housing Impact Partners (HIP). Focusing on the preservation of housing, the company is “rooted and vested in the legacy of South Los Angeles, inspired by shared experiences of community,” Kimberly said, adding, “I’m so grateful to be in partnership with Sherri and Carlton.”
“Housing inequality isn’t just a financial issue; it’s about dignity, stability, and long-term empowerment. Humanity in housing is at the core of everything we do—it means creating housing that reflects the dignity and diverse needs of the community, not just shelter,” she noted.
Her commitment to language reflects her broader vision for representation. Kimberly intentionally reframes narratives about Black communities, preferring terms like “historically underestimated” over words like “underprivileged” or “underrepresented.”
“I’m fiercely protective of how our communities are represented,” she stated.
“We’ve been here, and we are not without power, influence and access.” This belief inspired initiatives like AAREP’s South L.A. Rising, which showcases properties and projects led by Black developers.
As Kimberly transitions out of her role as president of AAREP L.A., she passes the torch to Lynn King Tolliver, a founding board member and seasoned leader. Garland, who has played a significant role in the organization’s recent success by driving membership and programming, will assume the position of vice president.
Kimberly will remain involved as president emeritus while also serving as chair of the National Network of Chapters.
“With the LA28 Olympics on the horizon, equity will remain a priority in everything we do,” she emphasized.
As Kimberly embarks on this new chapter, her focus remains rooted in impact, leadership, and legacy.
“The need for housing and community empowerment is simply too great. We don’t have the luxury to defer our commitment to catalyzing change,” she insisted.
Through her continued advocacy, Kimberly Brown ensures that South L.A.’s history and future remain intertwined with resilience and empowerment.
