As we enter the season when many people are, on the lookout for homes it’s clear that the fight for housing continues into 2024. Fortunately, agents like yourself are leading the charge. Together we can strive for a future for everyone.
Real change requires an understanding a commitment to growth and a stronger sense of empathy towards those we serve. To bridge the housing gap we’ve gathered resources that illuminate the history of housing discrimination the challenges and progress of the housing movement and the important work that lies ahead.
Agents, whether you prefer learning through reading, watching, listening or all of the above. There’s something for you. Welcome to your Fair Housing toolkit!
Insights on How Housing Discrimination Operates
In America one of the ways to build generational wealth is, through homeownership passed down over time. However barriers designed to hinder Black Americans from accessing housing opportunities have disrupted this path for families hindering their ability to achieve lasting security.
If you’re interested, in delving into the history of housing discrimination in the United States this podcast episode is a must listen. In this two part series by Civics 101 they explore the origins of housing in America through archival clips and expert interviews. The first part dives into how federal public housing initiatives came about and their impact on communities. The second part focuses on how public housing policies affected Atlanta, Georgia.
Additionally there’s a documentary titled “Our America; Lowballed”, from ABC that investigates the appraisal experiences of Latino families. It sheds light on the discrimination these families face during home appraisals and the significant equity they stand to lose as a result.
In the episode of Week Tonight from July 25 2021 host John Oliver delves into the history of housing discrimination, in the United States highlighting its detrimental effects and discussing potential solutions.
A Focus on Location
The documentary “A Matter of Place ” created by The Fair Housing Justice Center and Kavanagh Productions sheds light on the issue of housing discrimination. It draws connections between struggles for housing and current instances of bias in housing based on factors such as race, sexual orientation, disability and income source. The film showcases three individuals who have experienced housing discrimination in present day New York City.
“Owned; A Tale of Two Americas”
By following the experiences of a retired NYPD officer, a real estate agent from Orange County and an aspiring property developer in Baltimore “Owned” examines the ideals behind U.S. Housing policies. Exposes systematic oppression within certain urban areas across America. The film also explores the communities formed as a result of these systems.
“Priced Out; The Documentary”
Delving into the complexities of gentrification and its repercussions on established neighborhoods this documentary provides insights into residents displaced from their homes, in Portland, Oregon.
In a city known for its population a documentary delves into the impact of gentrification, on Portlands communities and the perpetuation of housing discrimination.
Training & Certifications
Starting in May 2023 new applicants to the National Association of REALTORS® are required to complete two hours of housing training. Existing members must also undergo this training every three years as part of their REALTOR® membership. The NAR offers courses aimed at addressing bias tackling housing practices and promoting housing opportunities for all individuals.
Addressing Bias; Breaking Down Fair Housing Barriers
This course offered by the NAR equips real estate professionals with strategies to combat thinking and provide service to all clients. Through a 3-hour session, NAR members delve into the psychology behind identity. Explore how implicit biases can result in violations of housing laws. The course includes activities designed to enhance communication skills and foster positive relationships with clients, from backgrounds.
Fairhaven; An Interactive Fair Housing Experience
This training module developed by the NAR leverages storytelling to help participants recognize, prevent and address practices within the realm of real estate.
In the simulation you’ll be challenged to sell homes within a time limit, in the town of Fairhaven all while dealing with issues of discrimination in the homebuying process. You’ll step into the shoes of a homebuyer who faces discrimination and receive feedback that can be applied to your business interactions.
Exploring Diversity at Home
This certification from NAR is designed to help you navigate a market effectively. It covers topics like sensitivity to diversity its relevance to U.S. Fair housing laws in your dealings and strategies for engaging with people in todays real estate landscape. You have the option to complete this certification course either in person over a day.
Associated Organizations
National Fair Housing Alliance;Established in 1988 NFHA is composed of over 200 fair housing organizations and state/local civil rights agencies across the U.S. Membership is open to all and supports NFHAs programs that provide aid to victims of discrimination and work toward addressing systemic issues.
NFHA publishes a Fair Housing Trends report that examines housing complaints nationwide delves into their root causes and offers recommendations, for different organizations.
The Fair Housing Justice Center, known as FHJC is a profit organization focused on fighting housing discrimination supporting inclusive communities and enforcing fair housing laws. Based in New York City the organization assists individuals and groups in asserting their housing rights advocates, for policies promoting inclusive communities and engages in various other activities.
Taking knowledge to action;As a professional in the real estate sector you hold the key, to engaging with home buyers understanding their aspirations and needs deeply and contributing to the advancement of fair housing efforts. We encourage you to delve into this issue that impacts those you work with and stand alongside us in bridging the divide. The industry looks to you for support!
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