Steering violates the Fair Housing Act and can occur in both obvious and subtle ways. It includes showing homes only in certain areas, discouraging buyers from neighborhoods, or providing different information about communities based on protected characteristics.
An agent only shows Hispanic buyers homes in predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods while showing white buyers homes throughout the city. This is illegal steering based on national origin, even if the agent claims they were trying to make buyers feel "comfortable."
Steering is ALWAYS illegal, even if the buyer requests it. If a buyer says "I only want to live near people like me," the agent must show ALL suitable properties regardless. Any form of directing based on protected class = steering.
Related Terms
Related Concepts
The fiduciary obligations a buyer's agent owes to their client, including loyalty, obedience, disclosure, confidentiality, accounting, and reasonable care.
A form that explains to the buyer the types of agency relationships available and the duties associated with each, required to be provided before substantive discussions begin.
The practice of a listing broker sharing commission with a buyer's broker, historically offered through the MLS but now prohibited from MLS display under the 2024 NAR settlement.
An initial meeting between a buyer and agent to discuss the buyer's needs, explain agency relationships, review representation agreements, and establish expectations for the home-buying process.
The duty of a buyer's agent to act solely in the buyer's best interest, avoiding any conflicts of interest and putting the buyer's needs above the agent's own financial interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
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