{"id":56031,"date":"2022-04-29T23:40:11","date_gmt":"2022-04-29T23:40:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bhgrecareer.com\/bebetterblog\/?p=56031"},"modified":"2024-12-30T09:21:30","modified_gmt":"2024-12-30T14:21:30","slug":"housing-market","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bhgrecareer.com\/bebetterblog\/housing-market\/","title":{"rendered":"You\u2019ve Got the Power! How Agents Can Stop Discrimination in the Housing Market"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Diversity and inclusion apply to the housing market as well as business. The two come together for real estate agents who the Fair Housing Act regulations must guide. Discover how agents have the power to make a difference and stop discrimination in the housing market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understand the Fair Housing Act<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding the Fair Housing Act, enacted in 1968, is the first step toward ensuring inclusion for everyone who wants to buy, sell, rent, or participate in the housing market. The Act was amended twice to include protected classes of people from experiencing discrimination from agents, brokers, landlords, mortgage agents, and other people in the housing industry. In addition, state laws further define those protected against discrimination. Basically speaking, these classes are based on gender, race, national origin, lifestyle, disability, and background.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Be Familiar With Law and Ethics<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond the Fair Housing Act and related state regulations, other laws exist to prevent discrimination. For example, savvy agents gather information about the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits discrimination in the rental or sale of properties. Other important laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. In addition, real estate agents who are members of the National Association of REALTORS\u00ae must adhere to Article 10 of the Code of Ethics, which prevents all types of discrimination in the housing profession.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make Marketing Materials Fair<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Often marketing materials are the first contact clients have with an agent. Some phrases commonly used in descriptions, web pages, and blogs could be considered discriminatory. For example, stating a bathroom has a his-and-hers sink focuses on traditional couples. A better description would be a double or dual sink. Another example is a master bedroom, best described as a more oversized bedroom. Avoid statements such as a \u201csafe neighborhood\u201d and use phrases such as \u201ca picturesque area.\u201d Anything that focuses on a particular segment of the population is considered discriminatory. Always use general, inclusive language that resonates with everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know Where Nobody Should Go<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once an agent connects with prospective clients, it is crucial to ensure fair treatment throughout the housing process. Providing the highest level of services means being aware of discriminatory actions, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n