Nafeesah Allen
Contributor
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Nafeesah Allen lived with the lingering legacy of a city plagued by redlining and racial segregation in the residential housing market. This inspired her to create a multi-million dollar buy-and-hold real estate investment portfolio in markets with similar legacies. From Washington, DC to Johannesburg, she is committed to advancing housing and financial equity by increasing long-term appreciation and economic value in urban centers.
As a home improvement writer, she not only draws upon her 15 years of experience as a real estate investor but also her passion for decor and design. A mom of young kids, she is especially interested in creating content around topics such as multi-generational living, safety and accessibility. Nafeesah’s writing is accessible to homeowners and savvy residential and commercial investors alike because she prioritizes both long-term value and aesthetics.
Expertise
- Residential Real Estate
- Global Housing
- Home Improvement
- Accessible Design
- African, Asian, and Latin American Interior Design, Decor Aesthetics
Key Highlights
- Global Real Estate Investor with nearly 15 years of experience
- Home improvement and design writer for over four years
- Focus on researching and writing about age- and ability-inclusive design for over two years
Education
- University of the Witwatersrand (Ph.D., Migration and Society)
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (Post-Graduate Diploma, Culture and Folklore Studies)
- Columbia University (M.A., International Affairs)
- Barnard College at Columbia University (B.A., Spanish and Latin American Culture; Africana Studies)
-
Sparklight Internet Review: Plans, Prices And Speed 2025
Sparklight is a broadband communications company offering TV, phone and internet services in 19 states across the country. Previously known as Cable One (and with the parent company remaining Cable One), the residential internet provider became Sparklight in 2019. Cable... -
Google Nest Home Security Review 2025
Google Nest has carved a niche in the smart home industry with its innovative and user-friendly products. Established in 2010 and acquired by Google in 2014, Nest initially focused on smart thermostats but soon expanded to include a comprehensive range... -
How To Ship A Car From Florida To California
Need to get your car from Florida to California but need help figuring out how? Car shipping can conveniently get your vehicle from the Sunshine State to the Golden State. The average cost of shipping a car from Florida to... -
Select Home Warranty Vs. American Home Shield: Major Differences, Pros And Cons
Select Home Warranty and American Home Shield are two of the numerous home warranty providers across the country that save homeowners money and offer peace of mind. Home warranties—distinct from homeowner’s insurance—provide coverage for repairs and replacements on major systems... -
Do You Tip Car Transport Drivers?
From servers to taxi drivers, tipping is an everyday occurrence in many industries. Tipping is always optional but highly encouraged for exceptional service in many cases. But tips become more questionable when the car shipping cost is already high or... -
Hughesnet vs Viasat – Which Is Best For You?
Satellite connectivity is a good fit for people outside the cable and fiber internet connectivity range. It allows access to internet from rural or remote locations. While it can be pricier than traditional plans, you can get a plan that... -
ADT Vs. Brinks Home: Which Is Best For You?
Whether to prevent break-ins or to nab the person stealing packages from the porch, the best way to safeguard your home and your peace of mind is to install a home security system. ADT and Brinks Home are among the... -
Best Solar Companies In Michigan
Michigan is a legitimate mover and shaker in the world of solar, with astronomical growth throughout the past decade. All told, there are over 200 solar companies in the state. It’s easy to see why. Michigan gets plenty of sun,... -
Best Solar Companies In South Carolina
Solar energy has numerous environmental benefits, and adding solar panels can save South Carolinians thousands on energy bills and increase their home value. South Carolina residents can also qualify for state and federal solar tax credits and local utility incentives... -
Everything You Need To Know About Polybutylene Pipes
If you’ve never heard of polybutylene piping, chances are you’ve never needed a major plumbing renovation in your house. Polybutylene is often called “poly,” “Poly B,” or “PB.” These days, it no longer meets U.S. building codes and PB replacement... -
MasterShield Review And Prices 2025
Using micromesh technology invented and patented by Alex Higgenbotham in 2001, MasterShield offers a gutter guard that can be installed on almost any roof or gutter. Like an extension of your roof, MasterShield gutter guards are pitched so that debris... -
Bekins Moving Review And Prices
When looking for a great moving company that can transport your belongings safely, you’ll want to know which companies have the best reputation for providing excellent service. This Bekins Moving review will tell you everything you need to know about... -
How Much Does Soffit And Fascia Replacement And Installation Cost?
The cost of installing or replacing soffit and fascia can vary depending on several factors, such as the materials used, the size of the roof, and the complexity of the project. On average, expect to pay around $2,700, with soffit... -
Champion Windows Review 2025
Champion Windows is a full-service exterior home features company, offering vinyl and aluminum windows, as well as doors and sunrooms to customers across the country. It has been around for 70 years and has built a reputation for high quality... -
What Is Trenchless Sewer Line Repair?
It's true–sewer problems can be an expensive headache. They come in many varieties: blockages, backups and leaks. Addressing repairs can be time-consuming, labor-intensive and costly. Landscape damage and large-scale destruction is largely attributed to digging trenches to access the sewer... -
How Much Does It Cost To Install Washer And Dryer Hookups?
Whether building a new home or renovating a laundry room, breaking down the cost of installing washer and dryer hookups might factor into any major home renovation. The lowest costs start at $50, with the hookups installed existing water, gas... -
How Much Does Roto-Rooter Cost?
Roto-Rooter charges on average between $160 and $575 for common issues. There are no additional fees, as most Roto-Rooter locations do not charge for trip fees or estimates. Fees above the $1,000 price point indicates serious or emergency work needs... -
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Water Softener System?
The national average for a water softener system installation, including labor and materials, is around $1,500. If you have persistent hard water, opt for a more complex system, like an ion exchange double tank or a reverse osmosis system servicing... -
What Is An En Suite Bathroom?
In French, “en suite” means then, later or next. But, when it comes to bathrooms, the term “en suite” is used to mean adjoining, attached or connected. An en suite bathroom is a bathroom that is connected to a bedroom.... -
iBex Home Warranty Review
iBex Home Warranty was established in 2017 and is a Utah-based business. It was Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited within six months of operation. It holds an A+ rating, indicating that they go above and beyond to satisfy its clients.... -
Wyze Home Security Review For 2025
Editor’s note: Since this article was originally published, The Verge reported complications with Wyze home security cameras, including customers being able to see into other customers’ homes when accessing live video. Wyze has also reportedly failed to address the issue transparently with its... -
Solar Panels Vs. Solar Shingles: 7 Major Differences, Pros And Cons
Solar power is one of the most widely utilized alternative energy sources because not only does it help minimize dependence on fossil fuels but also it reduces the overall carbon footprint. Now solar energy is readily available across the United... -
Super Home Warranty Review 2025
Super is a company that provides subscription-based home care services. It operates across select cities in the United States. A subscription to Super covers appliance and system breakdowns and helps with routine maintenance. Through the app, you can schedule services... -
Eufy Home Security Review 2025
Eufy is a subsidiary of Anker Innovations, a Chinese-owned company that owns multiple tech-forward companies. The company’s “Smart Home Simplified” motto reflects its commitment to creating user-friendly home security solutions. Eufy’s products include security cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, floodlight... -
Learn The Major Pros And Cons Of Moving To Each State
The United States is huge. Before looking to move out of state, you’ve got to ask “what state do I live in” and “are there perks I’m not taking advantage of right here?” Each state (even each city) offers many... -
Best Moving Companies In Oregon
Oregon, known for its picturesque natural scenery and rich culture, attracts newcomers from all walks of life. From bustling urban areas like Portland and Eugene to quaint and beautiful towns like Bend, Oregon offers its residents a little bit of... -
Best Home Warranty Companies In Colorado
Colorado homeowners face dramatic shifts in weather and high repair costs to match the state's rising property values. Sub-freezing winters bring heavy snow, contrasting with dry summers. A reliable home warranty can cover a home’s HVAC and other necessary systems... -
Spectrum vs. AT&T – Which Is Best For You?
With big names like Spectrum and AT&T dominating America's internet service provider market, knowing which company to trust with your online connection can be tough, especially when we spend several hours of the day using the home internet. After completing... -
Home Guard Home Warranty Review 2025
Home Guard Home Warranty Inc. is a California-based company that has been operating for over a decade. Established in 2005, it offers a broad range of plans and prices, as well a wide selection of optional coverage, to both homeowners... -
Budget Truck Rental Vs. U-Haul: Which Is Best For You?
If you need help moving homes or relocating to a new city, there’s no need to do all the heavy lifting alone. Hiring a company to do all or some of the job for you can be an investment. Doing...
