Explanation should include reference to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s fair housing laws and presidential executive orders (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/fair_housing_and_related_law) and legal and ethical implications for brokers and salespeople.
DPOR correlation: 18VAC135-20-400. 24 (Fair housing statutes)
Process/Skill Questions:
- What are the requirements of federal fair housing laws as they apply to brokers and salespeople?
- What are the penalties imposed for violating fair housing laws?
- Why should an agent be thoroughly aware of these laws before meeting with clients?
- What is an agent’s responsibility when he or she encounters a client breaking one of the fair housing laws?
- What are the ethical implications when breaking fair housing laws for brokers and agents?
- How would an agent address these issues ethically when they encounter them? Should the agent walk away? Explain.