Racial steering still affects homebuyers and communities today. Learn how real estate agents can identify, prevent, and stop racial steering—and promote fair housing practices.

Racial steering is a subtle yet deeply harmful form of housing discrimination that continues to influence the real estate landscape today. While laws such as the Fair Housing Act have been in place since 1968, the fight for equal housing opportunities is far from over. Real estate agents—often the first point of contact in the homebuying journey—hold immense power and responsibility in preventing racial steering and ensuring equitable access to housing for all.

What Is Racial Steering?

Racial steering occurs when real estate professionals guide potential homebuyers or renters toward or away from certain neighborhoods based on their race, ethnicity, or national origin. This practice can be overt or subtle and is illegal under the Fair Housing Act. Yet, it persists—contributing to residential segregation, unequal access to resources, and long-term disparities in wealth and opportunity.

The Real Estate Agent’s Role in Ending Racial Steering

As trusted advisors, real estate agents influence where clients search for homes and how they perceive communities. Here's how agents can actively prevent racial steering:

1. Know the Law and Your Ethical Duties

Familiarize yourself with the Fair Housing Act, state and local fair housing laws, and your real estate board’s code of ethics. Avoid making any comments or suggestions—intended or not—that imply a neighborhood is more or less suitable based on a client's race, religion, or background.

2. Provide Objective, Fact-Based Information

Clients may ask, “Is this neighborhood safe?” or “Are there many families like mine around here?” While these questions may seem innocent, they can lead to steering if answered subjectively. Instead, provide clients with resources such as:

• School district rankings

• Crime statistics from official government sites

• Local amenities and public services

• Community reports and census data

Let your clients draw their own conclusions from unbiased data.

3. Show Listings Based on Client Criteria—Not Assumptions

Avoid making assumptions about a client’s preferences based on race or ethnicity. Always ask open-ended questions about their ideal home, commute preferences, lifestyle, school needs, or price range, and tailor property suggestions accordingly. Your role is to support their vision—not influence it based on stereotypes.

4. Stay Aware of Implicit Bias

Even well-meaning agents can harbor unconscious bias. Consider taking part in fair housing training or implicit bias workshops regularly. Learning to recognize and check your own biases is key to ensuring fair treatment for all clients.

5. Speak Up and Report Violations

If you witness racial steering by another agent, report it. Discriminatory practices harm individuals and communities—and tarnish the integrity of the profession. Upholding fair housing standards isn’t just ethical; it’s the law.

Why It Matters

Racial steering perpetuates inequality by limiting people’s access to high-opportunity neighborhoods. It contributes to segregated communities, school funding disparities, and generational wealth gaps. Real estate agents who act with integrity and fairness help foster inclusive, thriving neighborhoods and build a better future for all.

Equity Starts With You

Preventing racial steering is not just about avoiding legal consequences—it’s about doing what’s right. As a real estate agent, you have the power to champion fairness and inclusivity every day. The industry doesn't just need more sales—it needs more advocates for equity.

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