Equal Housing - Don't Even THINK About Asking Me to Violate The Law!

We see this logo in all sorts of sizes on varous websites and advertisements. What does it mean?

Basically, by having it displayed, it means that under Federal Fair Housing Law, I agree to abide by fair housing practice - meaning, that I will not discriminate against my clients and customers based on race, religion, national origin, sex, color, or familial status. Oh, and I'm going to throw in sexual orientation there too, just in case someone was wondering.

But I'm not merely complying with the Fair Housing Act because it's the LAW and I would face serious fines and who knows what else if I violate the law - I comply with it simply because - duh - it's the right thing to do!

I am shocked when I hear stories about real estate agents who have discriminated against customers because of their race or some other reason...it's inexcusable.

I have, on more than one occasion, taken phone calls from potential customers, seeking information about the area. Some are asking sensitive questions, such as "What's the crime like in this area?"

I really can only refer you to news websites, or you can contact the Pennsylvania State Police and question them about crime in the area. Worried about child predators? Click here for the PA Megans Law Website.

Sometimes I am told by customers: "We do not want to live in an area where there are lots of kids...what do you recommend?"

Ouch - I'm sorry, this too is discrimination and I am unable to answer that legally. You may want to visit the area, ask questions of your friends and family members - then YOU decide where you'd like to look for a home to buy.

The most obnoxious question I've been asked - this one I've gotten at least twice - is "I don't want to go in any areas, with, you know, the wrong kind of people, know what I mean?"

Oh, yeah, I know what you mean. (and let's be clear, these questions were not about crime ridden areas, or anything of the sort - it was obvious that racial discrimination was the motivating force behind the question.) And I'm not about to feed your racism - the answer you'll get for me is "I'm sorry, sir, Federal Fair Housing Law prohibits me from making discriminatory judgements such as this."

And with that, I may say "Thank you for calling - have a good day!" and that will be the end of our conversation. I do not want to give even a glimmer of an impression that I "understand" or empathize with this "position."

I have never been able to understand or tolerate racism. AT ALL. And I'm not about to start.