Single women are claiming their place in the real estate market—and in greater numbers than ever before. About 20% of all homebuyers were unattached women, according to a 2024 National Association of Realtors report. Yet women getting the keys to their own castles—and in their own names—was a long time coming. Like so much of women’s history, the tale of how they were able to become property owners is equal parts frustrating and inspiring. Yet their determination reshaped the nation’s...