Promoting Fair Housing Through Inclusive Listing Practices

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, fair housing remains a core element of ethical practice. All year long—and with particular focus during Fair Housing Month—the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the Silver City Regional Multiple Listing Service (SCRMLS) have demonstrated a strong commitment to upholding these values through their listing policies.

Understanding the Impact of Language

A key focus in fair housing education is the language used in property advertisements. Phrases like "exclusive neighborhood" may appear harmless but often carry historical associations with segregation and exclusion. Such language can unintentionally suggest that certain groups are not welcome, which contradicts the principles of fair housing. Being aware of these terms and avoiding them is crucial for promoting inclusive communities.

The words REALTORS® select can subtly convey bias or exclusion, even when there is no ill intent. For instance, expressions like "ideal for families" or "within walking distance to..." might seem innocent but could imply preferences based on familial status or physical ability. These subtle hints can dissuade certain buyers or renters from considering a property, leading to potential fair housing violations. That’s why it’s vital for real estate professionals to use inclusive, neutral language that focuses on the property’s characteristics—such as the number of bedrooms, square footage, and amenities—rather than making assumptions about who might be the ideal occupant.

If you’ve ever attended a fair housing class, you’ll recognize the part where the instructor advises, “...and here are the words you should avoid using in your advertising.” 

The Role of MLS in Promoting Fairness

Before the advent of Multiple Listing Services (MLS), property marketing was limited to yard signs and word-of-mouth, often restricting access to select groups. MLS platforms revolutionized this by providing widespread exposure to listings, ensuring that properties are accessible to a diverse range of potential buyers. This open access helps level the playing field by giving all qualified buyers the opportunity to learn about and pursue available properties, regardless of their background.

Policies Enhancing Fair Housing

NAR’s Clear Cooperation Policy requires REALTORS® to submit listings to the MLS within one business day of publicly marketing a property, promoting greater transparency and broader access for all potential buyers. While the policy allows for “office exclusive” listings, these are only permitted with the seller’s informed consent, reinforcing the value of open market exposure. This timely sharing of listing information helps curb the use of “pocket listings,” which could otherwise limit visibility and lead to discriminatory practices.

Conclusion

The concerted efforts by NAR and SCRMLS in refining listing policies underscore a shared dedication to fair housing principals. When real estate professionals are intentional about using inclusive language and utilize MLS platforms to ensure wide visibility of listings, they help create more welcoming, accessible communities. Ultimately, the MLS serves not only as a tool for streamlining real estate transactions—it also stands as a key driver in promoting fairness, transparency, and equal access within the housing market.