Teresa Palacios Smith serves as the chief inclusion and engagement officer for HomeServices of America, where she leads diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategies across more than 40 affiliated companies. With a focus on fostering equitable opportunity and inclusive culture, she impacts over 23,000 agents and employees nationwide. In 2025, she launched REEL Talk, a virtual film series designed to encourage dialogue around identity, race and equity, aligning with national observances such as Juneteenth and AANHPI Heritage Month. Her Women Who Lead initiative has grown into a national podcast featuring over 150 women leaders, broadening visibility and support for women in the industry.
Smith expanded the Diversity MATTERS program with episodes addressing pressing issues like housing affordability and accessibility, positioning HomeServices as a leader in inclusive homeownership. She also sharpened the focus of the Diversity Champion Awards to emphasize measurable progress in recruitment, outreach and community engagement. Her educational efforts include creating courses on Microaggressions in Real Estate and Fair Housing Essentials, which have been widely adopted within the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network.
Beyond her organizational role, Smith contributes as vice chair of the HomeServices Foundation for Housing Equity and serves as executive sponsor of the Latino Employee Resource Group at Berkshire Hathaway Energy. She holds leadership positions in several national real estate organizations, including NAHREP and the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. Recognized by RISMedia and other industry groups, she continues to influence the housing industry through advocacy, education and the promotion of inclusive practices.
Name:
Teresa Palacios Smith
Title:
Chief Inclusion & Engagement Officer
Company Name:
HomeServices of America
