California Real Estate Broker ExaminationReal Estate PracticeMedium
A real estate broker is preparing an advertisement for a property in a diverse neighborhood. To comply with fair housing laws, which of the following phrases should the broker AVOID using in the advertisement?
- A'Ideal for a professional couple or small family.'
- B'Located in a vibrant, family-friendly community.'
- C'Close to public transportation and schools.'
- D'Spacious home with ample natural light.'
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 'Ideal for a professional couple or small family.'
Phrases like 'ideal for a professional couple or small family' can be interpreted as discriminatory based on familial status or marital status, implying a preference for certain types of buyers and potentially excluding others, which violates fair housing advertising guidelines.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This describes general neighborhood characteristics without indicating discriminatory preferences.
- C. This describes objective features and benefits, not discriminatory preferences.
- D. This describes objective property features.
Fair Housing Advertising Guidelines
Fair housing advertising guidelines prohibit the use of words, phrases, symbols, or images that indicate any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on protected characteristics.
- Focus on property features, not ideal occupants.
- Avoid terms that imply familial status, race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other protected class preferences.
- HUD provides guidance on acceptable and unacceptable advertising language.
Memory trick: When writing ads, describe the property, not the 'perfect' people for it, to avoid fair housing pitfalls.