California Real Estate Broker ExaminationReal Estate PracticeMedium
A licensee is preparing an advertisement for a property that states, 'Charming home, perfect for a young couple starting a family!' This advertisement would most likely be considered a violation of which of the following?
- ACalifornia Civil Code Section 1102 (Seller Disclosure).
- BReal Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA).
- CTruth in Lending Act (TILA).
- DFederal Fair Housing Act.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Federal Fair Housing Act.
The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on familial status, among other protected classes. Advertising that targets specific demographic groups, such as 'young couple starting a family,' can be seen as discriminatory by implying others are not welcome or suitable for the property.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Civil Code Section 1102 deals with seller disclosure of property defects, not advertising language.
- B. RESPA regulates closing costs and settlement procedures, not advertising content.
- C. TILA regulates consumer credit and advertising for financing, not discriminatory language in property descriptions.
Fair Housing Advertising
Fair Housing laws prohibit discrimination in housing advertising by preventing the use of words, phrases, or visual content that indicate a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on protected characteristics.
- Applies to all forms of advertising (print, online, verbal).
- Includes familial status, race, religion, sex, disability, national origin, and color.
- Focus on property features, not characteristics of ideal tenants/buyers.
Memory trick: Fair housing for all, no matter who you are, or where you're from.