Real Estate Near JBLM: What Military Families Need to Know About "Steering"
As military families transition to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), finding the right home becomes a top priority. The real estate market around JBLM offers a variety of housing options, but it's essential to be aware of a practice known as "steering," which is not only unethical but also illegal under the Fair Housing Act.
Understanding Steering in Real Estate
Steering occurs when real estate agents influence a buyer's choice of neighborhoods or homes based on protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, gender, disability, familial status, or national origin. This can happen in subtle ways, like not showing you properties in certain neighborhoods, or by making comments intended to sway your decision based on who lives in those areas.
For example, an agent might avoid showing a White family homes in a predominantly Black neighborhood or steer them away from areas with residents of a different religion or ethnic background. This behavior is illegal because it restricts the buyer's freedom to choose a home without bias.
Why You Won’t Get a Direct Answer to “What’s a Nice Neighborhood?”
When you ask a real estate agent about the "best" or "safest" neighborhood, they might not give you a straightforward answer. This is because terms like "nice," "good," or "safe" are subjective and can be interpreted differently by different people. An agent’s personal opinions could unintentionally lead to steering, so instead, they focus on objective criteria such as property features, school ratings, and proximity to amenities. Asking "Where is the best place to live near JBLM" will rarely be answered.
How to Help a Real Estate Agent Provide you Answers
Use Objective Criteria: Provide your agent with specific, objective criteria—such as the number of bedrooms, budget, or proximity to work—that will help them find properties that meet your needs without the risk of steering.
Clarify Your Terms: If you use vague terms like "nice" or "good," be prepared to clarify what you mean. For example, if you want a family-friendly neighborhood, mention your desire for parks and good schools, rather than using subjective language.
Rely on Third-Party Information: Ask your agent to direct you to third-party sources for neighborhood information, such as crime statistics or school ratings, so you can make an informed decision based on facts.
Be Aware of Unconscious Bias: Agents are human, and even the most well-intentioned professionals can have unconscious biases. If you notice that certain areas are consistently not being shown, ask why, and ensure that your criteria are being met.
By understanding the risks of steering and working with your real estate agent to focus on objective, unbiased criteria, you can find the right home near JBLM without falling victim to illegal practices.
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