The law is clear about real estate steering

Re: 'Real estate firm charged with racial discrimination' (July 31)

Dear Editor:

It is beyond belief that anyone would take the time to intentionally steer or guide people seeking professional help to find a home. Offering the buyer a simple list of homes that meet the buyer's guidelines of the size, bedrooms and geographic areas is very simple. People can live where they want and have the right to do so.

This behavior is not acceptable in any profession. Our profession of real estate has very specific laws and guidelines, and the fair housing laws are designed to protect buyers. Agents and brokers who do not or cannot understand should not be in our industry. In many cases, brokers are not aware of an individual agent's actions. Brokers can offer specific guidelines and require agents to follow the rules but cannot be with agents 24-7.

Every year we have Fair Housing Act reminders through continuing education classes and published company reminders. Our company policy guides agents with very specific information on how to help clients. We even use written examples to offer a firm guideline, which is a key component to our daily business.

Thanks for printing a reminder to all that these type of actions by agents and brokers will not be tolerated by the U.S. Department of Justice, the public or real estate professionals.

Gary White
Broker-owner
FlexIt Realty
Grand Rapids, Mich.

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