Hey, Cis; Hey, who?
Cis = latin preface for ‘on the same side as.
Cisgender is someone whose gender identity aligns with their sex as assigned at birth.
Cisgender is someone who has the ability to make the world safer, brighter and more inclusive for trans people young and old. Cisgender is someone who needs to be an intentional part of the conversation — so let’s talk.
Hey, Cis! is a volunteer-based podcast. You can support the production of our inclusive creative content by buying us a coffee…
‘If it’s not me, then who?
If it’s not now, then when?’, says Charlie Johnson about working as an openly out trans professional in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Charlie says, ‘Coming into the real estate industry, I wanted to do things differently.’
They say it is a predominantly white, cisgender, heterosexual dominated industry in need of diversification and are paving the way for others looking to work professionally and openly trans.
Tune-in to S1:Ep7 of Hey, Cis! Podcast:
Charlie is currently a hot new agent ready to help you find your dream home! They are also candid and raw in sharing their experiences, fears and goals for 2021. Charlie launched their career in Halifax in the Fall of 2020 and says a big part of their plan to work courageously ‘out’ in Halifax, comes down to feeling it is 100% necessary to give representation to the trans community.
Isaac and Cynthia talk to Charlie about what it’s like buying and selling a home in Nova Scotia as a member of the queer community. Having recently purchased a home with their partner, Isaac says the process wasn’t easy. Being presumed to be roommates or friends, or not having your identity be respected can make the process beyond stressful.
Charlie says they’re committed to being involved and giving back to the community. Their business is a safe space for both cisgender folks and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It’s inclusive for everyone. They volunteer on the board of Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project (NSRAP) and are passionate about making a positive difference in people’s lives.
They say the queer in Queer Realty is meant as a grass roots umbrella term, embracing the entire community in a positive way. Talking about their journey and how gender identity and sexual orientation evolves over time, Charlie feels by eliminating the labels and boxes, we’re all creating space for people to evolve and grow.
Bridging the gap in realty:
What about securing a mortgage, insurance and all that goes along with home purchasing?
Charlie chatted to us about their team and what it means to create safe spaces the entire way.
After all, it’s likely the biggest investment of our lives!
‘I need to feel secure that my clients, who have put their trust in me, are receiving the same quality of service when working with my team.’
Tips for first time buyers:
In a market where the selection is small and the market moves quickly, make sure you’re working with someone you can trust.
- Share your pronouns & always use someone’s preferred pronouns – never presume.
- Work with someone you feel comfortable with – someone you vibe with!
- Find out who their team of professionals are – lawyer, mortgage broker, contractors. Are they inclusive? Do you have experience working with a vulnerable population?
- Be prepared.
Spotlight on Charlie Johnson:
Born in: Nova Scotia, Canada
Fave Food: ‘I’m a big comfort food person.’
Fave Read: Ninja Selling and Your Guide To Gender. He’s preparing for an upcoming event in the New Year with Fusion Halifax!
Cats of Dogs?: ‘I was raised with too many cats!’ (laughs) But in the last 2 months he’s been thinking seriously about a dog.
Find Queer Realty here: @QueerRealty FB+Insta
Email: cjohnson@royallepage.ca