One of the most common questions I hear from clients is: “Is this a safe neighborhood?” While I completely understand the concern, fair housing laws prevent realtors from answering this question — or any variation of it.
Why Can’t Realtors Answer?
Safety is subjective. What feels safe to one person may not feel safe to another, and realtors cannot make assumptions or provide opinions that could be seen as steering clients toward or away from certain areas. Answering this question, even indirectly, could unintentionally violate fair housing laws.
Moreover, crime statistics are not always the full picture. Neighborhood safety can be influenced by factors such as media coverage, economic conditions, and community engagement. Instead of relying on a realtor’s opinion, buyers should use official sources and personal experiences to evaluate a neighborhood.
What Else Should You Avoid Asking?
- “What kind of people live in this neighborhood?”
- “Is this a good place for families?”
- “Are there a lot of [specific group] people here?”
- “Would you live here?”
These types of questions touch on protected classes and can lead to discriminatory practices. Realtors are legally and ethically bound to provide fair and equal service to all clients.
What Can You Do Instead?
Rather than relying on a realtor’s opinion, here are some ways you can conduct your own research:
- Visit the neighborhood at different times of day to see if you feel comfortable.
- Check crime statistics through local law enforcement websites, neighborhood watch programs, and crime mapping services.
- Read HOA regulations to understand community rules and expectations.
- Talk to potential neighbors to get a sense of the community atmosphere.
- Consider factors important to you, such as commute times, school districts, and access to amenities.
Fair Housing: A Realtor’s Responsibility
Upholding fair housing principles is not just a legal obligation but an ethical one.
By providing unbiased guidance and encouraging my clients to take charge of their own research, I help ensure that every homebuyer finds a place they love — fairly and equitably.
Fair housing laws exist to protect everyone’s right to housing. I am committed to ensuring that every client receives fair and equal treatment, empowering them with the tools they need to make informed decisions without bias. If you have any questions about fair housing, I am always happy to provide resources to help guide you in the right direction.