Study Says Agents Still Steering Buyers
It has long been suspected that some agents engage in “steering” – guiding their buyer-clients away from low-paying listings. And the authors of a new, large-scale study say they’ve unearthed proof.
It has long been suspected that some agents engage in “steering” – guiding their buyer-clients away from low-paying listings. And the authors of a new, large-scale study say they’ve unearthed proof.
A number of agents in recent months have become adamant that we should all stop our buyers from writing “love letters” to sellers because these letters often violate fair housing laws. I strongly disagree.
Off-market listings have gained significant traction in Massachusetts over the last year. They clearly picked up advocates during the pandemic, as listing scarcity elevated demand and a sense of urgency among buyers.
Attorney General Maura Healey’s office announced $110,000 in fines and mandatory training yesterday for three South Shore real estate agents and one brokerage accused of violating fair housing laws.
The 6-3 decision could open the door to adding gender identity and sexual orientation to the categories protected by the Fair Housing Act.
U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling is investigating reports of landlords who have responded to requests to defer rent payments “with demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual conduct.”