Douglas Elliman fair housing case reveals agent confusion over law

A discrimination lawsuit filed in August by Shaniqua Newkirk, a Black Section 8 voucher recipient, against several Douglas Elliman agents has brought to light misconceptions about agent obligations when it comes to fair housing. Continue reading

Do you recognize housing discrimination when you see it?

Safe, affordable housing should be accessible for everyone, writes new contributor Nora Crosthwaite. As Realtors, our responsibility is to our clients, no matter who they are. Continue reading

Will chatbots make housing discrimination worse?

New artificial intelligence technology can recommend real estate listings based on neighborhoods’ ethnic makeup. Experts are worried about the tech’s potential for discrimination. Continue reading

Why the new fair housing training requirement is good for business

According to Julia Lashay Israel, Keller Williams’ head of inclusion and belonging, by fostering an inclusive and equitable housing market, real estate businesses can attract a diverse clientele, enhance their reputation and contribute to a more prospe… Continue reading

Park National Bank latest lender to settle federal redlining charges

The Ohio bank’s $9 million pledge to promote ownership in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods is the sixth since the DOJ launched an initiative to combat redlining in October 2021, with lawsuits generating $84 million in relief to date. Continue reading

Wells Fargo exiting correspondent mortgage lending business

Executives hope to reduce risk by reducing the size and narrowing the focus of bank’s mortgage business to better serve retail customers and minority communities. Continue reading

NAR changes Code of Ethics to refer to ‘disability’ rather than ‘handicap’

New markets require new approaches and tactics. Experts and industry leaders take the stage at Inman Connect New York in January to help navigate the market shift — and prepare for the next one. Meet the moment and join us. Register here. The highest g… Continue reading

Nationwide appraisal ethics rule changes postponed until 2024

The Appraisal Foundation’s Appraisal Standards Board says it needs more time to assess proposed changes designed to close the door to discrimination. Continue reading

SafeRent discriminated against Black, Hispanic renters often: Suit

The tenant screener violated the Fair Housing Act for years as it doled out disproportionately low risk scores to Black and Hispanic rental applicants with housing vouchers, a new federal lawsuit says. Continue reading

7 tips for Realtors to avoid legal and ethical snags

Honesty, transparency and responsibility are key to avoiding legal and ethical missteps. Luke Babich offers timeless advice for how to stay on the right path. Continue reading