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Equal Opportunity Laws protect you from workplace discrimination. Our goal is to assist anyone who feels they are victims of workplace or employment discrimination.

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How do HOAs Work?

How do HOAs Work?

How do HOAs Work?

HOA stands for homeowners association. It is an organization that establishes and enforces rules for maintaining subdivisions, neighborhoods, or buildings. The HOA charges a fee to members in order for them to maintain common areas and establish rules. Sometimes amenities are provided.

What is an HOA?

Condo associations and homeowner associations are usually run by directors elected by residents. The bylaws govern HOAs and provide guidelines for homeowners living in the area.

You can elect members of the board and request that rules be revised and amended as a homeowner in an HOA. You have the right to control what happens inside your home depending on which HOA it is. However, the HOA will oversee exterior maintenance and changes.

HOAs are legally allowed to charge special assessments, raise fees and enforce rules. HOAs can suspend common areas or take residents to court for breaking rules or failing to pay HOA fees, depending on the state laws.

HOA rules and services

An HOA’s main tasks are to manage the community and provide services for residents. They also enforce rules.

Maintenance services

HOAs usually take care of trash removal and lawn care in the common areas of a community. Although services may vary between HOAs, most repair common areas like the roof of condo buildings, fences, and streets.

Amenities

Some communities offer HOAs that include exclusive amenities such as a pool, a gym, or a coworking space. These amenities may increase HOA fees.

Insurance policies

HOAs often have insurance that covers liability and repairs to common areas. This could reduce the cost of residents’ insurance policies.

Establishing community rules

Residents living in a homeowners association have to agree to follow the rules of the community. These can include pet ownership, RV parking, and home-based business options. 

HOAs may have rules regarding homeowner maintenance, such as the height of grass or exterior colors to keep the community cohesive. They also restrict your ability to rent your house to long-term or short-term tenants.

HOA

Types of HOAs

According to the Foundation for Community Association Research, more than 25% of Americans live within an HOA community. The following are common terms used in HOAs:

  • Civic association. An informal association of neighbors that is not able to enforce rules or collect homeowner association dues.
  • Condominium association. The board of a condo association is elected by the owners. They will oversee the common elements, including the exterior of the building, and the rules for the community. Maintenance and other services are subject to a monthly fee.
  • Master association. Master associations are umbrella associations that cover multiple subdivisions or neighborhoods and manage common amenities like streets and recreational amenities.
  • Cooperative association. Members of the co-op own shares in the building and pay a monthly maintenance and service fee. The building is owned by the association, which also pays property taxes.
  • Association of townhouse owners. The association collects fees from homeowners to cover common area maintenance, such as trash collection. Homeowners are responsible only for their homes.
  • HOA. An HOA is a board of volunteers elected by the owners to maintain and repair common areas. An HOA will also set and enforce rules.

HOA board vs. HOA administration

A community with HOA residents usually has an elected board consisting of volunteers who set rules and vote for community policies. Many HOAs also hire an HOA management firm to manage the community.

A third-party management company manages the day-to-day operations of the community, including the collection of HOA dues. Although the management company is not required to enforce policies or make decisions, the board can rely on the management company for advice.

Management companies can communicate with residents in order to address maintenance requests, remind them about decisions made by the property owners association, and send notices regarding late HOA fees.

What are HOA fees?

HOA fees pay for insurance, maintenance, and repairs of common areas, as well as services like trash collection. In some cases, they can even cover amenities like a gym. Particularly in high-cost areas, HOA fees can be in the hundreds or even higher for condos and co-ops.

It is important to evaluate the HOA fees when buying a house. This will help you decide if they are too expensive.

Homeowner association dues, unlike other costs associated with homeownership like your mortgage interest payment, are not deductible.

Is your mortgage subject to HOA fees?

No. HOA fees are paid directly to the homeowners associations rather than the lender. HOA fees are part of your housing cost and can impact the amount you can borrow to purchase a home.

The escrow account of your lender, which acts as a savings account and where you make a monthly payment for lump sum bills that are paid annually, semi-annually, or annually, usually includes your homeowners insurance premiums and property taxes, but not HOA dues.

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), some lenders might agree to include HOA fees in your escrow if requested.

HOA fees can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. A special assessment may be required. This can be paid in one lump sum or in installments, depending on how large the assessment is. If the annual HOA fees amount to $2,400 for example, this may be how they are paid.

  • Monthly- $200
  • Quarterly- $600
  • Annually- $2,400

HOA fees

What are the HOA fees?

HOA fees cover the operation of the community, such as snow removal and trash collection. Some exterior elements of the homes can also be maintained depending on the HOA type.

The HOA master policy can provide substantial coverage in certain communities and help lower homeowners insurance costs. Some HOA fees may include utility costs.

A portion of the HOA fees should go into a reserve fund to cover long-term projects or unexpected repairs. A special assessment could be applied to homeowners if an HOA does not have enough reserve funds to cover major expenses such as repaving a lot.

What happens if your HOA fees are not paid?

Your homeowners association may take several measures to make you pay your dues if you don’t pay them.

  • Send a demand note for past-due fees
  • Limit your use of amenities like parking or a gym.
  • Offer a repayment plan.
  • If you rent your home to tenants, demand that they pay their dues.
  • File a small claims lawsuit.
  • File a lien against your property.
  • Pursue a foreclosure.

The pros and cons of joining an HOA community

Pros

  • This may increase property value. An HOA community typically has rules to keep a community attractive, such as exterior appearance requirements and landscaping. The appeal of a community can be enhanced by amenities that help to preserve property values and maintain its value.
  • Community amenities may be offered. Many homeowner associations offer residents access to walking trails, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
  • May resolve disputes between neighbors. By establishing and maintaining rules like noise and pet regulations, a property owners association can reduce conflict between neighbors.
  • Services may be offered by HOAs. Services such as snow removal, trash collection, and maintenance of common areas are covered depending on the HOA. HOA fees may include utilities and insurance.

Cons

  • A special assessment may be required. A special assessment can be required if a homeowner has to undertake a major repair or project and the homeowners association does not have the funds.
  • There may be high fees, which can go up. HOA fees can increase the cost of homeownership. They are often used to cover maintenance costs and other projects.
  • You may be subject to restrictions. The rules of an HOA can include pet restrictions, business regulations, paint colors, and what you can put on your front doors. While some HOAs are strict about following rules, others may be more relaxed.
  • If you don’t follow rules or pay fees, legal action may be taken. Unpaid HOA fees can be put on your property by a property owners association.

neighborhood

FAQs regarding HOAs and Mortgages

What are the HOA fees?

The HOA dues you pay will cover different items depending on where you live. It is important to understand exactly what your HOA dues cover, such as road maintenance and trash removal, or access to a gym.

Who enforces HOA rules?

A volunteer-elected board establishes rules and responsibilities for HOA residents. An HOA management company may be able to communicate with residents about violations.

What questions should I ask regarding how an HOA runs?

You, as a buyer, or homeowner, need to find out if there is a volunteer board or management company that runs the HOA community.

It is important to know if the homeowners association has any reserves for future expenses, how often dues can rise, and whether special assessments may be required.

Ask about insurance coverage, whether utilities are covered by fees, and who is responsible for the exterior maintenance of your property.

Is there a charge for HOA fees on my mortgage payment?

No. HOA fees are required to purchase a home in an HOA area. The fees are not included in your mortgage.

What legal powers does an HOA possess?

Your state’s laws may allow your HOA to enforce homeowners association rules or take legal action against you for not paying HOA fees.

The bottom line

A mixed blessing can be living in a planned community, which is governed by HOA rules. You have the opportunity to exchange some control of your home in return for a reduced responsibility for maintaining the area and the benefit of shared amenities and security. 

You will need to be able to trade the varied appearance of your neighborhood for a uniform appearance and the work required.

These tradeoffs can make or break your happiness in a condo or planned and uniform community. Talk to a realtor before you make a decision to buy.

Am I Required To Hire A Real Estate Lawyer To Sell My House?

Am I Required To Hire A Real Estate Lawyer To Sell My House?

A real estate lawyer is not required when selling your home unless you are selling in a state that requires one.

However, in certain circumstances, such as if you are selling your home by owner or dealing with unique property issues it may be in your best interests to hire a realty lawyer.

when you’re buying a single-family home in a straightforward transaction, a real estate agent can usually handle the sale on their own.

A local agent who is experienced will be familiar with the laws and regulations in your area and be able to advise you about potential issues that might arise. You can always reach out to a real estate lawyer if you have any questions during the sale process.

When is the best time to hire a lawyer?

You need a real estate lawyer if you’re selling in a state where it’s required by law.

Although each state may require sellers to hire a lawyer, the end goal for all is the protection of the integrity and sale of homes in the state.

You should always consult your agent about changes in real estate laws. They will let you know if your state requires a real estate lawyer at any time during the sale.

Am I Required To Hire A Real Estate Lawyer To Sell My House?

These states require that you use a real estate lawyer:

  • North Dakota
  • Connecticut
  • Georgia
  • West Virginia
  • Delaware
  • Kentucky
  • Maine
  • New Hampshire
  • Massachusetts
  • New Jersey
  • Mississippi
  • Kansas
  • Rhode Island
  • New York
  • Maryland
  • Pennsylvania
  • Virginia
  • South Carolina
  • Vermont
  • Indiana
  • Washington
  • Alabama

You should always consult your agent about changes in real estate laws. They will let you know if your state requires a real estate lawyer at any time during the sale.

What is a real-estate lawyer?

Real estate lawyers assist property sellers and buyers in navigating real estate transactions and helping to ensure that they meet all legal requirements.

Although a real estate attorney may have experience in contract law, that does not make them qualified to act as an agent. Agents are licensed by the state they live in. An attorney can serve as a support for your real estate agent.

An attorney may not negotiate the price or terms of a sale but they can advise you about any underlying legal issues. For example, real estate lawyers can:

  • Identify potential issues in contracts that contain contingencies
  • We can help you determine the best way to approach complicated legal issues such as splitting the proceeds of a divorce or selling a house with a deceased owner.
  • Find loopholes in purchase agreements and get advice on how to close them
  • Examine buyers’ offers to identify legal red flags. This includes potential legal issues longer-term if you sign a sloppy or incomplete purchase agreement.

Real estate attorneys also play a key role in closing, reviewing documents, and addressing any unexpected issues.

Should I hire a real estate attorney if I don’t legally need one?

If you have any of these conditions, even if it is not required by your state, you might want to hire a real estate lawyer to help you sell your property.

  • You are selling FSBO
  • Are you going through a divorce or separation
  • If you are selling your home and actively renting
  • Your property is unique
  • A property that you inherit from a deceased owner is being sold.
  • Property is being sold in poor condition
  • A short sale or foreclosure
  • You are selling commercial real property
  • Your Spidey sense acts up

You are selling FSBO

You can put your house up for sale by owner (FSBO) without the assistance of a real estate agent.for sale by owner

Unless you are an experienced seller, it is worth hiring an attorney to deal with the paperwork involved in selling FSBO. This includes the purchase agreement. The attorney will ensure that you adhere to all laws in your state and any other complexities of a home sale.

Find a real estate lawyer who can help you with:

  • Closing
  • Contingencies
  • Inspections
  • Title issues

You are selling a house you are actively renting

A real estate lawyer will help you understand your rights and those of your tenants and protect you against litigation.

If you have family members living in your house, this is important as you must give them sufficient notice before you sell.

A foreclosure or short sale

Whether you’re selling a house for less than you owe on your mortgage, aka a short sale, or your lender has foreclosed on your home and is forcing a sale, you can benefit from a real estate attorney who specializes in financially-distressed properties.

It is important to negotiate the best terms possible with your lender. In either case, an attorney can help you.

You’re selling commercial real estate

Find an attorney who is familiar with commercial real estate law and can advocate in your best interests.

Selling commercial real estate is often more complex and risky than selling a single-family house. These transactions also often involve higher costs.

A real estate attorney will help you navigate the often complex and potentially risky transactions that can involve:

  • Multi-income streams such as rental properties
  • Navigating zoning laws
  • Understanding environmental laws

Your Spidey sense acts up

Have you ever felt bad about a part of a house sale? Perhaps you should consult an attorney. A real estate attorney can help you with a transaction, even though it may cost more, it may be worth it.

A real estate agent with extensive experience dealing with similar issues is another way to tackle these challenges. For example, many realtors are experts in helping you transition out tenants or with foreclosures. They will also let you know when an attorney is needed.

Is it worth hiring a real estate attorney?

The value of a real estate lawyer depends on your situation and needs.  If you are financing the property, you will be required to have a title search completed, and that is usually done by an attorney or someone out of a local real estate law office. 

Unlike a personal injury attorney, a real estate attorney does not have a financial stake in selling property. They are paid a flat fee regardless of the sales price of the home. This allows them to provide peace of mind for outsiders. That can be a big benefit to some people.

A lawyer can also help sellers navigate legal issues and prevent them from becoming involved in future litigation.

However, a real-estate attorney’s value depends on what they can do for you. This includes whether one real estate agent can meet your needs or if you need both. Let’s dive deeper.

What are the differences between real estate attorneys and real estate agents?

What are the differences between real estate attorneys and real estate agents?

A real estate attorney does not have an in-depth knowledge of the local market, and cannot advise you on its nuances. They won’t be able to help you determine a price or negotiate with buyers to get the best price for your house.

A great agent can provide a shield against common legal threats due to their real estate experience and knowledge of home sales. However, they cannot be considered a legal advisor. Agents are prohibited from giving legal advice in many states. 

Real estate lawyers have the experience and training to handle a variety of complex issues. This includes reviewing documents and representing your interests at closing.

Their payment structures are another major difference. Most real estate attorneys work for an hourly rate, either with a retainer that is billed upfront or a flat fee. The commission that real estate agents receive is split between the listing agent and buyer’s agents. 

If you are a priority, this commission could encourage an agent to sell as quickly as possible.

A real estate agent can also offer other benefits. A real estate agent can provide a listening ear, gentle advice, and general emotional support. A home sale can cause stress and a good agent will be able to calm down their clients.

How can I find a real estate attorney?

A good real estate agent can refer you to a real estate attorney. You can also search the American Bar Association, FindLaw, or other professional associations like your state’s bar association for real estate lawyers.

As you’re evaluating agent-recommended real estate lawyers or searching on your own, keep in mind an attorney should at least:

  • Demonstrate a deep understanding of state and local real estate laws.
  • In case of emergency, be available immediately (or an experienced member of their team)
  • Instead of focusing on winning millions in court, focus on finding ways to cooperate with others to protect your rights.
  • You have a lot of experience in similar situations. If you need to deal with trust issues, consult a probate lawyer.

It is important to inquire about the costs of your services, such as whether you will pay per hour or a flat rate.

Real Estate Rules Forcing Home Sellers To Pay A Commission To The Buyer’s Agent

Real Estate Commission Rules

Real Estate Rules and Commission

The meteoric rise in housing costs has dominated much of the conversation about Canada’s real estate market. However, it’s easy to forget about the parallel rise in Canadians paying real estate commissions almost every time a house is sold or bought.

A brokerage representing a buyer would have received a commission of $8,795 in 2005 in the Greater Toronto Area. However, in December 2021 the brokerage representing the buyer would make $36,230. This is four times the commission earned by the brokerage, according to Dr. Panle Jia Barwick.

This jump is to put it in perspective: The median household income increased by only 14 percent between 2005-2019, after accounting for inflation.

This discrepancy is only one of many points in a recent suit that alleges price-fixing in Canada’s realty market and anticompetitive behavior.

On April 9, 2021, Mark Sunderland, a Toronto resident, filed a class-action lawsuit. It claims that some of the nation’s most prominent brokerages, including Century 21, ReMax, and IproRealty Ltd., as well the Canadian Real Estate Association and the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, conspired, agreed, or arranged to fix, maintain and increase the price… of buyer brokerage services in Toronto.

Although commission structures can vary from one country to the next, real estate agents and brokerages typically charge a percentage-based fee on the sale of a home. It’s seven percent on the first $100,000 in Alberta and B.C. and three percent on the remainder. Other parts of the country have commissions ranging from four to five percent.Commission allegations

These are the allegations

The seller pays the entire commission. However, the commission is split between the brokerage representing them as well as the brokerage representing the buyer.

Sunderland claims that the agreement, known as the buyer brokerage rule, was created by the Toronto Residential Real Estate Board and the Canadian Real Estate Association. It requires residential real estate sellers to pay the buyer’s brokerage commission.

Similar practices are also found in many other real-estate boards across the country.

The lawsuit claims that this arrangement has hindered competition in the market by forcing sellers to pay more for services they don’t need.

“It’s no typical smoky-room conspiracy; it’s open and public,” stated Garth Myers, a partner at Kalloghlian Myers LLP. Kalloghlian Myers LLP filed the case for Sunderland and all those who have sold a GTA home since 2010.

This alleged price-fixing effect can be felt even by those who do not offer the standard commission rate, according to Barwick, an economist who focuses on the commission structure in the real estate industry.

She wrote that the buyer brokerage commission rule “creates an incentive and ability for buyer brokers to ‘steer away’ buyers from residential real estate property where sellers offer lower buyer brokerage commissions,” as part of the research Kalloghlian Myers LLP commissioned for the case.

She writes that sellers can be compelled to offer the standard commission merely because they fear this might happen.

Realtor.ca makes it possible for real estate agents and brokers to see the amount of commission on offer, but the public is not allowed to see this information.

Similar lawsuits have been certified in the U.S.

Sutherland’s suit is similar to the class action case currently underway in the U.S. against the National Association of Realtors and America’s largest real estate brokerages.

The U.S. class action was also certified last month. It alleges that anticompetitive conduct occurred in the real estate sector, leading to home sellers from the U.S. paying inflated commissions.

Stephen Brobeck, a senior fellow who was previously the executive director of Consumer Federation of America, an organization that is based in Washington, D.C., said, “Tens of trillions of dollars are at stake.” His research has informed the U.S. case.

Brobeck said that the industry is trying to maintain a pricing cartel in terms of commissions. He noted that it’s something that’s already happening in Canada and the U.S.

The average Canadian home sells for $746,000. The full commission, which is split between buyer and seller’s brokerages, amounts to between $26,330 to $37,300. The average commission in Toronto is more than $62,000 before taxes.

Sunderland paid a standard commission of 2.5 percent to his buyer’s agent, according to his lawyer.

Myers stated that “His view” and the one he supported in the case was that he had to pay the 2.5 percent because of a price-fixing conspiracy between the brokerages in GTA.

The market sets the rate and not MLS rules or collusion among brokerages.

– Rui Alves, CEO iPro Realty Ltd.

The Canadian Real Estate Association and Toronto Regional Real Estate Board filed a motion in March 2022 to dismiss the whole action as lacking “reasonable cause of action.” This motion will be heard in the fall.

Another defendant in the suit said that he believes the case lacks merit.

Rui Alves (chairman and CEO of iPro Realty), stated that “our business is very competitive” in a statement to CBC News. “It is the market that sets rates, not MLS rules and collusion between brokerages,” Rui Alves, chairman, and CEO of iPro Realty said to CBC News.

iPro Realty encourages sellers to offer the area’s prevailing rate — or might suggest that the buyer’s brokerage offers a higher commission rate in a slower market.

“This shows that our fees are not fixed, but only react to the fees of competitors in the area. Just like any other business would.”

CBC News reached out to Century 21 and ReMax. Century 21 Canada stated that it does not believe the claim has merit, but it declined further comment.

ReMax stated that it would not comment on the ongoing litigation.

Steering commissions in real estate

Investigating commission steeringA 2021 investigation on the topic of steering by agents in real estate found that consumers are not exaggerating their concerns.

Investigators went undercover to pretend they were homebuyers searching for a Vaughan, Ont., home. The team asked three local agents to schedule viewings at three properties for potential buyers. One offered only one percent commission to agents, while the other two were standard for the area.

The commission was low, and one agent made it clear and offered to negotiate. However, the other agents didn’t tell buyers and discouraged them from viewing the house.

Real estate agents are caught in violation of the law by investigators. They use their commissions to block private sellers, hinder competition and keep them high.

The agents advised the buyers that the house was too expensive by $200,000 and claimed the owners wouldn’t budge on it. Another agent informed the buyers that she could not book a viewing and suggested that the property might be occupied by tenants. This would make it difficult for many people to move in

Producers also called 25 real estate agents across America to pose as sellers in an attempt to sell a house. 88% of agents were against lowering the commission rate for buyers’ brokerages when they were asked.

An agent in Halifax said that agents might be aware of the money they are being paid and may push buyers to other homes.

“I’ve had agents tell me that they are looking at two houses, and they’re both good fits, but I’m definitely kind of massaging them towards mine because there’s more to it for the Realtor,” said another Winnipeg agent.

Investigators were not allowed to speak with the Canadian Real Estate Association, nor Ontario’s regulator, RECO. RECO sent a notice to all 93,000 real estate brokers, agents, and brokerages that it had come across, noting that such behavior was against its code of ethics.

The notice stated that the conduct was not only illegal but also undermined consumer protection, consumer confidence, and the reputation of real estate professionals as a whole.

It’s not common for sellers to offer rates that are lower than the standard buyer’s commission. Alan Spivak, a Toronto real estate agent, stated that less than 1% of all listings in Toronto were represented by sellers who offered commissions below 2.5% to buyer brokerages.

He wrote, “This is consistent in my experience for all residential property in the GTA since at least 2010” in an affidavit that was included in Sunderland’s statement of claim.

How to increase competition

Barwick writes that if there weren’t buyer broker commission rules, services would be more competitively priced. Buyers would pay for their representation and negotiate prices or skip the service entirely. It is already common in Australia and the U.K. Buyers and sellers are responsible for their representation, and commission rates there are lower.

Brobeck stated that this would encourage sellers to work harder with listing agents, and that commission rates would likely drop.

Brobeck’s research shows that “decoupling” real estate commissions could result in standard rates dropping by 1 to 2 percent over the course of a few years.

Canadian Real Estate Association stated to CBC News that it wouldn’t comment on Sunderland because it was before the courts. Another defendant in the case was Toronto Regional Real Estate Board. It has stated that it had no involvement in and did not discuss REALTOR®, commissions.

 

REALTORS: Dealing With Different Generations of Buyers

To recognize noticeable shifts in the real estate market, whether helping their clients buy a home or sell a home, Realtors need to continually stay abreast of changing real estate trends to know more about their clients’ changing wants and needs.

Dealing with generations of homebuyers

For most of “The Greatest Generation” or “baby boomers, the idea and importance of home ownership was drilled into their heads from a very young age and represented one of the cornerstones of the American Dream. However, the purchasing power of millennials alone constitutes a sea change in the market.

With both generations now effectively vying for the same Memphis homes for sale available on the market at any given time.

The Difference Between “Hipsters” and “Millennials”

Hipsters are often portrayed in film, television, and other media outlets as a feckless group of beard-growing, kombucha-drinking guys dressed for irony while populating your coffee shop with their laptops.

Millennials are simply a group where their only qualification for the age group distinction is their birth year. You can be a rich “hipster” and a “successful millennial.” The lines are truly blurred.

Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

The Rise in Millenial Purchasing Power

For many Realtors, appealing to very disparent age groups competing for the same property is going to present myriad challenges in the future.

While boomers may be looking to downgrade their existing homes now that their children are fully-grown, looking for more walkable neighborhoods now that driving has become more of a chore, millennials are seeking these same $300,000 homes.

Baby Boomer buying a home
Baby Boomer buying a home

Millennials are often traveling for work more than their potentially retired elders. Consequently they, like boomers, are looking for lower maintenance properties. Many boomers no longer wish to mow the lawn of their McMansions and both groups love technology for different reasons.

Many boomers are finding “smart homes” truly make their lives easier, while millennials have grown up with constant technological innovation and can’t see “going backwards.” They are always looking for the newest tech trends and may be more tech savvy than some agents.

A More Informed Buyer

Home and Garden Television (HGTV) and other television channels devoted to the home are, by default, leading to a more educated group of buyers, regardless of their generation. Older buyers quite simply watch more television, especially when retired.

The popularity and growth of House Hunters International and its other properties, while fun to watch, have also informed viewers in a near-unprecedented manner.

Younger buyers are likely considerably more informed about the cost of renovations and even whether they might to take on the challenge of such work themselves.

A False Sense of Security

Although many that feel “more educated” about the real estate transaction, for many home buyers and sellers, they feel that they know more than they really do. This can cause people to direct their Realtor (based off of television information) to do the wrong thing.

It is an agents job to direct the client, that can become harder when the client believes they know as much as the professional. Realtors go through a ton of education and most successful Realtors are a party to many real estate transactions per year.

The Impact of Social Media and the Internet on Realtors

People are working longer hours, while also driving the growth of social media and other sites. Going out to lunch might involve a salad for a younger buyer and an opportunity to look at Instagram and other social media platforms to discuss properties or to visualize for room improvements.

They don’t want to “waste” a day of work being shown dozens of properties that they have already had a virtual walkthrough of recently. Additionally, on the other side of this coin, is the importance for Realtors to have a strong online presence of their own, especially on Facebook and Instagram.

The traditional walk-throughs are being replaced by a new generation of Realtors who will be asked about “up and coming neighborhoods” as well as neighborhoods which will see home values rising in the short and long term.

Never Forget the Importance of Interest Rates

The expectation that interest rates will continue to trend upwards presents a new set of challenges and objections to Realtors. Know the name of the Chairman/Chairwoman of the Federal Reserve and learn how to use their comments to your advantage.

It’s always helpful to have a basic understanding of economics, which gives a great deal of insight into future markets and how things can change. As they say, “the only constant is change”, so stay on top of your knowledge and try to be as comprehensive as you can in this ever-evolving real estate market.

For more information about real estate, to buy or sell a home, waterfront properties or for general real estate questions, contact your local trusted Realtor today.

The post REALTORS: Dealing With Different Generations of Buyers first appeared on Real Estate Technology.

What Is FHA Home Loan Discrimination?

equal opportunity housing

What Is FHA Home Loan Discrimination?

The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, or FHEO, is an agency in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban development. FHEO is responsible for enforcing and administering federal fair housing laws to protect American citizens from discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, age, handicap, religion, sexual orientation, or any other form of discrimination prohibited by law. In addition, it is FHEO’s responsibility to implement measures to prevent discrimination and provide information on housing loans and foreclosure prevention. FHEO also enforces state and local fair housing laws.

The FHEO mission is very simple: “provide information and advice to agencies and associations of lending, coordinate programs to eliminate discrimination, and provide referrals to persons experiencing unfair housing treatment.” FHEO is a federal office located in Washington, D.C. Although all federal agencies and offices are required to comply with fair housing laws, not all are. There are many examples of discrimination that FHEO can help to remedy. If you are experiencing problems or know someone who is, you should let FHEO know.

There are some cases where FHEO can prevent or reduce discrimination. If a real estate agent tries to deny a home seller a house because of their race, gender, religion, national origin or disability, FHEO can take action to prevent this. FHEO will conduct an inspection of the property to determine whether or not it was built according to fair housing standards and whether or not the home seller has a reasonable excuse for refusing to sell the house. If the inspector determines that there is indeed a discrimination problem, the agency will work with the real estate agent to try to resolve the issue. In many cases, this means an offer to settle the dispute outside of court.

FHEO’s Equal Employment Opportunity Housing Division also works to ensure that all federal employees, including those in the National Background Check System (NBS) and the Social Security Administration, are able to practice their rights when hiring new employees. Employees cannot be discriminated against based on their race, nationality, sex, disability, religion, or national origin, according to FHEO. If there are employment issues, FHEO will investigate the complaint. If the employee is found to have been the victim of discrimination, they will be asked to file a complaint with their respective agency.

FHEO also works to prevent discrimination when it comes to home buying or home rental. FHEO works to make sure that no one experiences barriers when it comes to equal opportunity housing. They do this by ensuring that everyone has equal access. This includes FHA home loans for those in a lower income bracket, the ability to buy or rent a home regardless of familial status, and fair housing insurance.

If you want to move to a new city or a new state, FHEO can help you accomplish this. FHEO will help you fill out the necessary forms and will then assist you with the paperwork to purchase a home or rent an apartment in a new city or state. You should contact your local branch once you have decided where you would like to live. FHEO will give you free information about your local housing laws. If you move to a different city or state after your employment, FHEO can assist you with any other housing needs you may have. Whether you want to buy a home, rent an apartment, or apply for employment, you should contact your local branch to see if they offer this service.

Buzzfeed Equal Opportunity Workplace

equal opportunity employment

Buzzfeed Equal Opportunity Workplace

Equal Opportunity Employment simply means that all individuals in need of work are provided with a fair chance to obtain it. This concept goes hand in hand with human rights, which aims to ensure equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation and many other aspects. The goal of equal opportunity employment is to provide equal opportunities to all – regardless of ability, merit or background. It is important to note, though, that this does not mean that employers are permitted to discriminate against employees.

Today, there are many employers who recognize the importance of equal opportunity employment. Some of the businesses which promote diversity in the workplace include pharmaceutical companies, retail chains, technology firms and hospitality industries. In addition to promoting diversity, companies also ensure that employees are promoted on the basis of their merits – not on their race, religion or gender. By promoting equal employment opportunity employment, businesses are also able to boost employee morale and prevent employees from taking unfair advantage of others.

It is vital for employers to take anti-discrimination into consideration when choosing employees. Anti-discrimination policies usually include general anti-discrimination rules such as equal opportunity employment, accommodation and equal treatment. To comply with anti-discrimination rules, an employer cannot arbitrarily deny access to a job opportunity to an individual or group on the basis of their race, religious beliefs, disability, nationality or sex.

The United States Civil Rights Act guarantees the right of every individual to equal opportunity employment. The United States Department of Labor even has a webpage dedicated to telling employers how to make sure they do not discriminate against employees. The federal law also prohibits an employer retaliation, which means that if you complain about being discriminated against, you can file a complaint with the EEOC. For example, if you are being discriminated against because you are a member of a protected class (e.g., handicapped), you may be able to file a charge of discrimination.

Another important factor to consider is whether the employment decision is based on anything that would violate the equal opportunity employment standard. For example, an employer could choose not to hire someone based on their race, color, nationality, age, sexual orientation, etc. However, some states have passed bills that specifically protect against discrimination including pregnancy. However, these states still vary in terms of coverage. Therefore, it is recommended that you check your state’s laws before you embark on pursuing a complaint of sexual harassment, because different states have different definitions of what constitutes sexual harassment.

Buzzfeed is one of the leading websites for employers and job seekers. It allows employers to post job listings, apply for available positions, and browse through the database of available applicants. Applicants can browse through the database and apply for jobs online without ever leaving the comfort of their homes. This provides employees and job seekers with an equal opportunity workplace where they can thrive and succeed without fear of being overlooked or harassed.

How it Feels to Be Discriminated Against

How it feels to be discriminated against

How it Feels to Be Discriminated Against

How it feels to be discriminated against is hard to describe. You can’t put a label on it, and there are several different ways that it feels like to be discriminated against. If you’re a person of colour, you may feel like you have been discriminated against simply because you’re someone of a particular race, or because of your colour. Maybe you’re a woman and you were denied a promotion or maybe you were passed over for a promotion in the workplace because you’re a woman. This can be difficult to deal with, especially if you feel like you’ve been treated unfairly. Fortunately, you have the right to file a lawsuit in order to have those wrongs financially removed from your life.

How it feels like to be discriminated against can affect your work life, your family life and your social life. For instance, if you’re a person of colour and you are discriminated against in the workplace, this could have a significant impact on the quality of your life and even your finances. On the other hand, if you’re a person of a certain ethnicity and you’re discriminated against in the workplace, this can also have an impact on your social life and your finances. It’s important to know and understand the difference so that you can protect your rights.

How it feels like to be discriminated against can also affect your mental health. If you feel that you’ve been unfairly excluded from a job opportunity or if you feel that you’ve been harassed in a workplace, this can make you feel uncomfortable or depressed. When you feel depressed, you also tend to have lower levels of concentration and you have a hard time making decisions. In addition, if you’re depressed, you are less likely to realize when something is wrong and solve it. Being discriminated against can also have an impact on your work performance.

How it feels to be discriminated against can also affect your mental health, your relationships with your co-workers, your children, and your life in general. When you feel that someone is negatively discriminating against you, it can reduce your confidence, your happiness, and your ability to live a full and successful life. When you think about the discrimination that you have experienced, it can also remind you of times when you were treated unfairly in the past. This can lead you to have negative thoughts about yourself and other people, which can lead to feelings of depression.

How it feels to be discriminated against can also affect your health and well-being. You might feel depressed, anxious, angry, or guilty, and you may try to avoid situations where these feelings may arise. This can have a negative impact on your physical health, as well as on your mental health and well-being. Thus, if you experience any of these feelings, you should know how it feels to be discriminated against and what you can do to stop it.

How it feels to be discriminated against can have a tremendous effect on your quality of life, and you should know how it feels to be discriminated against so that you can protect your rights. You should learn more about how it feels to be discriminated against so that you can see if you are likely to be affected in the same way as others who have been negatively affected. If you are feeling discriminated against for any reason, then you should know how it feels to be discriminated against, what you can do to change it, and what you want from the situation. By knowing how it feels to be discriminated against, you can make the necessary changes to be able to get the fair treatment in the workplace that you deserve.

Are You a Victim of Harassing Behavior?

If you have experienced or witnessed workplace retaliation, you need to report the incident. You may have been a victim of religious discrimination, racial discrimination, or other forms of discrimination that makes you feel unsafe in your current workplace. As a victim of workplace retaliation, it can be very intimidating and painful. But the first step is to let someone know what happened. Then you can take action to protect yourself from further attacks.

Reporting Discriminatory Behavior

If you have experienced or witnessed religious discrimination, you should report the incident by writing a letter to your human resources department or by going to the local American Association of Discrimination Lawyers’ office. If the attack occurred on a basis of religious discrimination, then you should also write a letter to the Department of Labor and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The Department of Labor’s website has a detailed list of the federal employment discrimination laws. You can also contact them directly to file a complaint for the discrimination.

If you have witnessed harassment in the workplace, such as from a colleague or from upper management, you should report the incident to your supervisor or human resources department immediately. Reporting discrimination or harassment can be extremely important if it is associated with employment law violations such as discrimination based on age, race, gender, religion, national origin, or disability, sexual harassment, physical or sexual abuse, or other similar employment law violation. Similarly, if you have experienced harassment on the basis of any of these characteristics, you should file a complaint immediately. Likewise, if you have suffered any physical or sexual abuse at your workplace, you should immediately report the matter to your employer.

If you have experienced, witnessed, or experienced any other form of discrimination in the workplace, you should immediately report it to your human resources department or to an attorney skilled in employment law who will advise you on how to proceed. In addition, if you are a victim of sexual harassment, you should immediately notify your supervisor or attorney who will advise you on the appropriate steps to take in order to seek a discrimination lawsuit. If you are not sure if you have been subjected to sexual harassment, you should contact an attorney skilled in employment law to obtain further information. Reporting this matter will help ensure that you do not suffer any further consequences as a result of the employer’s actions. Furthermore, if you have been subjected to any physical or sexual abuse in the workplace, you should immediately report the matter to your employer. The consequences of not reporting this type of conduct may include being fired from your job.

In addition to filing a complaint for discrimination and retaliation cases, you should also consider pursuing other measures to resolve the matter amicably. For example, if you are the victim of a retaliatory personnel action, you should speak with an attorney skilled in discrimination and retaliation law. You can expect to pay a large settlement when pursuing a case in which an employer retaliates against an employee for complaining about the employee’s conduct. Similarly, if you are the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, you should file a complaint and request an apology or retraction from the offending employee. However, be aware that although an apology or retraction may satisfy your need for monetary compensation, it may also damage your credibility in the workplace.

As another measure to address the issue of discrimination, you should consider taking steps to ensure that your co-worker is not subjected to similar conduct in the future. For example, if you observe a white coworker making comments to a black co-worker that is discriminatory in nature, you should speak to your supervisor or attorney about this. In addition, if you observe a colleague making comments to a colleague that are discriminatory in nature, you should inform your supervisor or attorney about this as well. Reporting such behavior will not only ensure that you are not subjected to the same type of conduct in the future; it will also assist you in obtaining necessary remedies from the offending employee or company. Finally, if you feel that you are a victim of employer discrimination, you should report the matter to the EEO, or your employer’s Equal Opportunity Employer, to make sure that any appropriate measures are taken to remedy the situation.

Treating Everyone Fairly Under the Law

The United States has a history of treating everyone fairly under the law, yet in today’s polarized political climate, we have seen attempts to use the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to discriminate against people simply because they are poor people of color, such as members of the African-American, Hispanic, Asian or Native American communities. In addition, our nation’s free-speech law has been used to intimidate people who merely have different political opinions. In fact, many Americans fear that their civil rights could be further threatened if they dare to express a different opinion than the majority. Sadly, that could be true. Unfortunately, no one seems to know how to stop this trend and those who are affected by it have little hope for change.

Treating everyone fairly under the law

But why is treating everyone fairly so difficult? Why doesn’t the government just give everyone a fair chance and work to equalize opportunity? It seems that the answer is very complicated and probably needs to be explored in great detail. Luckily, government agencies are much more responsive when it comes to requests for change in their unfair practices. They are eager to learn about what is working and what isn’t.

There is a great deal of confusion about the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act concerning third-party collections, such as credit card companies. One section of the FDCPA covers written communications, which automatically includes all written communications that relate to debt collection. The problem is that the language is extremely ambiguous and a lot of people believe that it covers all contact between a creditor and a debtor, regardless of whether that contact occurs via phone, fax, email or in person.

This could not be further from the truth. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is actually intended to protect consumers from abusive, oppressive and harassing activities by collection agencies. This section was included to protect people from abusive and intimidating behavior by collection agencies, but was never intended to extend to requiring that third-party collection agencies to treat everyone fairly. This means that if you owe money to someone, you have every right to dispute what is owed and to seek fair compensation from the entity that owes it.

Unfortunately, some debt collectors are trying to use the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act in ways that are contrary to this very important provision of the law. For instance, some collection agencies have been found to engage in deceptive and abusive behavior when pursuing people for debts they don’t really owe. They routinely call people on their phones and threaten them with lawsuits if they do not pay up.

In addition to abusive practices, some creditors have been found to improperly label debt as coming from someone else, resulting in people being treated unfairly even though they never owe anyone money. Collection agencies can also call people on their cell phones to pressure them into paying. A number of people have found that they were unnecessarily harassed by collection agents and eventually found themselves the victims of costly legal suits. These and other situations highlight the need for more fair treatment of all people, especially those who are already struggling to keep their heads above water.

Fighting for Stopping Discrimination at Work – Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Every year, the United States and state governments pass legislation to further protect employees against discrimination. The purpose of these laws is to prevent employers from discriminating against employees for things such as race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation and more. However, there are instances where people do start to discriminate against others based on these factors. So what steps should you take when you feel that your company is being discriminatory?

Stopping discrimination

Most of these laws and policies have some sort of exception for a few protected classes of employment, but that doesn’t mean that you can never be discriminated against. The first thing that you want to do is understand the laws that you are fighting for. In order to do this, you need to consult an attorney who has had experience in fighting for cases of discrimination within your specific industry or company. This will allow you to fully understand how your company is being run and if there are any chances of stopping discrimination in your situation.

If you feel that your company has been discriminating against you based on your gender, then you have a case. There are many examples of how men and women are treated differently throughout the work place. Some employers will provide separate restroom facilities for male and female employees. Other employers give their employees different clothing options and will not allow their female employees to wear high heels on the job.

Employment discrimination laws are very broad and cover a wide array of circumstances. For example, you might be experiencing discrimination if you’re being promoted at your job without any merit whatsoever. On the other hand, perhaps you are only being offered the job because of your gender. Knowing your exact situation is the best way of stopping discrimination.

It may seem obvious, but you cannot put a law against discrimination into effect if no one is acting against you. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has put in place new rules for filing a complaint if you feel that you have been discriminated against. You must do more than simply sign a form. You have to document the incident and follow through with your complaint in a reasonable manner. This is the best way of ensuring that you have the legal standing to sue your employer if they don’t respond positively.

When you are ready to begin filing your complaint, the first step is to find an employment lawyer to help you. They can help you determine what the company’s anti-discrimination policies are and make sure that you have the right documents in order to file your complaint. Fighting for equal wages and working conditions is not only a right, it is also a necessity if you want to ensure that other people are treated equally. You are the one who has to fight for these laws to keep them from discriminating against you and other fellow employees.

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