Rachelle Lee Schneider

Summarize yourself in a tweet.

Advocating and negotiating for all things good. Organized and detail oriented. Deeply involved in my South Philly neighborhood but also knowledgeable about neighborhoods all around Philadelphia. A people person who genuinely loves to connect. Queer Jewish mom with a wide network.

You have a day off in Philly. What do you do?

Wake up early while the city is still quiet. Walk to Essen or the Tasty to grab some coffee and pastries with the fam. Then bike us all to whatever unique pop-up event is happening in Philly that day. Bonus points if it combines food, music, and art! Meet up with some friends at a local playground (or spray ground on those hot days) before finishing up the evening at a beer garden. I love it when a day combines something totally new with some tried and true favorites. I’ve never had a boring day in Philly!

What's the architectural detail your eye always gravitates towards?

As a photographer, I always notice well placed windows and admire the natural light that flows into a space . But I am definitely a sucker for original moulding, hardwood floor inlays, and the quirky things that tell a story about the home. I love that my house has a built-in light at the top of our banister.

Favorite community organization.

The Attic Youth Center and Valley Youth House both offer safe spaces and comfort for youth in need. I have collaborated with both organizations and can attest to the necessary and inspiring work they do.
The Attic Youth Center gives opportunities for LGBTQ youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults within a safe and supportive community.
Valley Youth House provides a home for vulnerable, abused and homeless youth and partners with thousands of individuals to build a solid foundation for young people and their families.

What differentiates you within real estate?

I go all in for what I am passionate about and have a fierce determination to see projects succeed. I will apply this to every client transaction.

One last thing...

I am actively involved in multiple communities serving as a board and committee member for Rodeph Shalom and The Friends of (Passyunk) Square. In the past I was an Advisor for LGBTQ students, and led DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and environmental committees at the University of the Arts.

I have worked in higher education and as a freelance photographer. I have a book published of my work with LGBTQ youth called Speaking Out: Queer Youth in Focus which allowed me to tour North America.
I was a roller derby MVP (and have the scars to prove it). I was an assistant booking agent for a Philly music venue.

My wife and I once quit our jobs and rented our house to backpack Central and South America... then the West Coast… only to discover that Philly is the best city in the world!