RACI Newsletter

Fair Housing Focus on Diversity (Back)

Published by on Feb 05, 2010

It's no surprise that good schools are often at the top of buyers' lists during the home search process. Research by the NAR shows the quality of the school district was a deciding factor for 27% of buyers.

While real estate professionals are careful to avoid steering, the illegal practice of directing home seekers to particular areas, even providing an opinion about whether a school is good or bad could be construed as steering.

What constitutes a good schoool is often a matter of opinion and depends on what parents are looking for in their child's education.

Real estate professionals play a key role in promoting the value that diverse neighborhoods and schools bring to a community, but how can agents legally respond to inquiries and promote those benefits to homebuyers? Try providing clients with resources or Web sites to third-party school ratings and parental or student feedback. Also encourage clients to meet with principals, teachers, or the PTA board to learn first-hand about a school and its programs.

(Taken in part from NAR's community Political Affairs Committee)

Information concerning fair housing and diversity issues can be found at www.realtor.org