New York Real Estate Salesperson ExaminationNew York State Specific Laws and RegulationsHard
A real estate salesperson in New York is showing a property to a prospective buyer. The buyer explicitly states they are only interested in neighborhoods with a specific ethnic demographic. How should the salesperson respond to this request?
- ADirect the buyer to online resources that provide demographic information for various neighborhoods.
- BShow the buyer properties only in the neighborhoods that match their requested demographic.
- CExplain that such a request is a violation of Fair Housing Laws and they cannot fulfill it.
- DSuggest they speak with a local community leader who might have relevant information.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Explain that such a request is a violation of Fair Housing Laws and they cannot fulfill it.
Steering, which involves directing buyers to or away from certain neighborhoods based on protected characteristics like ethnicity, is a direct violation of both federal and New York Fair Housing Laws. The salesperson must refuse to fulfill such a discriminatory request.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While appearing neutral, providing resources that facilitate discriminatory choices can still be considered a violation if the intent is to assist in steering.
- B. This action constitutes illegal steering and is a direct violation of Fair Housing laws.
- D. Suggesting a community leader to obtain demographic information for discriminatory purposes is still facilitating a discriminatory action.
Fair Housing: Steering
Steering is the illegal practice of guiding prospective buyers or renters to or away from certain neighborhoods based on protected characteristics, violating Fair Housing Laws.
- Illegal under federal and NY law
- Based on protected characteristics (e.g., ethnicity)
- Agents must refuse discriminatory requests
Memory trick: Fair Housing is about 'Equal Access for All,' so 'NO Steering' through the neighborhood gates.