We’re proud to share that Avery Shackelford, VP of Agent Programs at Lower, has been named one of HousingWire’s 2026 Rising Stars, a recognition honoring 75 emerging leaders under the age of 40 who are making a meaningful impact across mortgage, real estate, and homebuilding.
The annual award highlights professionals who are driving innovation, strengthening their organizations, and contributing to the future of the housing industry. Honorees are selected by HousingWire’s editorial team based on their professional achievements, leadership, and broader industry contributions.
For Lower, this recognition reflects the impact Avery has made over the past year leading strategy and execution for agent-focused programs. She played a key role in establishing a national partnership that expands Lower’s reach across teams, agents, and consumers. She also helped bring new strategic initiatives to market aimed at strengthening agent engagement and supporting business growth.
“The Rising Stars award is a celebration of the incredible energy, innovation, and talent shaping the future of housing,” said Sarah Wheeler, Editor-in-Chief at HousingWire. “This year’s winners are not only excelling in their respective fields but are also redefining what’s possible in the industry. Their creativity and leadership inspire confidence in the industry’s future, and I can’t wait to see how they continue to drive progress.”
“A strong housing economy requires leaders with vision, adaptability and a bias for execution,” said Clayton Collins, CEO of HousingWire. “This year’s Rising Stars represent a new generation of leaders strengthening their businesses, guiding teams and delivering impact. They are helping shape where the industry goes next.”
As VP of Agent Programs at Lower, Avery leads across go-to-market strategy, sales, customer success, and revenue operations, working closely with product, technology, and partnership teams to ensure programs deliver measurable value in market. Her ability to navigate complexity and execute with clarity has helped position Lower’s real estate platform for continued growth.
“Avery possesses an incredible intuition for what strategies will work best for consumers and our agent partners, and works tirelessly to bring those solutions to fruition,” said John Berkowitz, President of Real Estate at Lower. “She sets a strong standard, stays focused on what matters, and ensures the work translates into real impact for our partners and customers. That kind of leadership is what drives us forward.”
Avery shared that recognition like this reflects the collective effort behind the work.
“We’re building for where the market is going, not where it’s been,” said Shackelford. “That means moving quickly, working closely with our partners, and holding a high bar for what we bring to market. I’m proud of what we’ve built and where we’re headed next.”
The Rising Stars recognition reflects not only individual achievement, but the kind of leadership that is shaping what comes next for the housing industry.
The full list of 2026 Rising Stars is available at housingwire.com.
