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acre Carlos — Meet Carlos Hernandez Canales. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Carlos knew he found something special when he discovered CORE. Learn more about this free program committed to diversifying the real estate industry, and how he is working to share this resource within the Hispanic community.

From Zacatecas to Alabama

birmingham CORE — Carlos and his family came to the US when he was three. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Carlos Hernandez Canales was born in Zacatecas, Mexico. When he was three years old, his family immigrated to the United States. He is now a first-generation college student, pursuing a degree in finance and real estate at The University of Alabama.

And that’s not all. He’s also a multi-time scholarship recipient, member of the UA Business Honors Program and a steward for CORE. CORE is an innovative program committed to engaging underrepresented communities in the world of real estate.

The impact of CORE

CORE is a free, online credentialing and coaching program that teaches the fundamentals of real estate by utilizing eight learning modules. Upon completion, you’re equipped to take on entry-level part-time or full-time jobs in the field. Internships and apprenticeships are also paths of entry into real estate.

I caught up with Carlos Torres, Programs Director at The Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (HICA). He explained the importance of resources like CORE, and people like Carlos Hernandez Canales.

“One of the challenges that we see within the Latino community (and with immigrants in general) is that when we come to a new country and join society in a different system, we lack understanding of how things work in the new place. So, having somebody to guide you through a new path can make or break it for people to be successful in entering a field like real estate.”
—Carlos Torres, Programs Director, HICA

CORE’s Inaugural Cohort

CORE commercial real estate — CORE is committed to making real estate accessible to all. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Carlos works with CORE to connect those that might not have access to these resources otherwise. He recognizes that this training is accessible and, most importantly, could be a game-changer for many.

And his collaboration pays off. CORE received over 200 applications with diverse representation for their inaugural cohort this fall.

“CORE is opening a lot of doors for people that are looking for their path to success. It is an incredible program for underrepresented groups to get involved with real estate. I’ve enjoyed spreading the word, and am incredibly grateful for the program.”
—Carlos Hernandez Canales