&quot;9. Many of my clients ask me questions about the neighborhood, such as: “Who lives here? Are there any [fill in ethnic&#x2F;racial group]?” How should I respond to questions like these?<p>Let your clients know that you cannot provide information on racial, ethnic or other protected class demographics under the fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on such factors. Consider giving all of your clients a written statement about your commitment to fair housing when you first start working with them. This statement also can let clients know what services you can provide them and what information they’ll need to find out on their own. When you discuss your commitment to fair housing early on, your clients may be less likely to express their possible biases.
Many agents give a resource packet to all clients at the first meeting. The packet provides a broad range of information, including online resources to locate up-to-date neighborhood census information, community resources, local media, etc. By providing general information to all of your clients, you make it easier for them to find the perfect home. See Appendix B for some area resources for home buyers to include in your own packet.
For your own protection, make sure you document any specific requests from your prospects and clients that you feel may have fair housing implications. Keep a record in your files of both the request and your response.&quot;<p><a href="http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.kingcounty.gov&#x2F;~&#x2F;media&#x2F;exec&#x2F;civilrights&#x2F;documents&#x2F;100QsRE.ashx?la=en" rel="nofollow">http:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.kingcounty.gov&#x2F;~&#x2F;media&#x2F;exec&#x2F;civilrights&#x2F;documents...</a>