Q: As a REALTOR®, what steps should I take if a client insists on violating fair housing laws?
A: This Fair Housing Month, it is crucial for REALTORS® to understand how to respond when a client violates fair housing laws. REALTORS® must take decisive and prompt action to protect themselves from liability and to help prevent fair housing violations.
When faced with such a client, it is essential to take the following steps:
- Education the client about their obligations under fair housing and the importance of complying with the law.
- Maintain records of all interactions with the client.
- Refuse to participate or support any illegal activities.
- Notify your broker about the situation immediately.
- Terminate the relationship if the client continues to insist on unlawful actions.
Additionally, it is advisable to include a clear statement in your listing agreements and other communications with clients, expressing your commitment to upholding fair housing laws. This will put everyone on notice that you will follow Fair Housing laws and also contribute to preventing discrimination in housing.
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Services provided through the Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice, nor does it establish an attorney-client relationship. The Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®, by providing this service, assumes no actual or implied responsibility for any improper use of responses to questions through this service. The Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® will not be legally responsible for any potential misrepresentations or errors made by providing this service. For more information regarding these topics authorized callers should contact the MAR legal hotline at 800-370-5342 or e-mail at legal@marealtor.com.