Oct 18

Oct 18 County Council Addresses Racial Discrimination In Real Estate

Council Members Franklin, Harrison, Hawkins Advance Bill Banning Real Estate Appraisal Bias

There is absolutely no reason for potential homebuyers or sellers to fear receiving an unfair appraisal analysis purely because of their race. But it’s an unfortunate occurrence, and a bill is being passed to help end this atrocity. In an effort to eliminate home appraisal bias in Prince George’s County, Council Members Mel Franklin, Sydney Harrison, and Calvin Hawkins have championed legislation that bans the practice. Violators could face a $10,000 fine.

“The real estate appraisal community needs to take this seriously and become more conscious of any hidden racial bias entering into the appraisal process,” said Council Member Franklin. “We’re sending a message that illegal discrimination won’t be tolerated in Prince George’s County, and there’s a price to be paid for it.”

The Real Estate Appraisal Ban of 2023 (CB-075-23) prohibits real estate appraisers from considering race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, disability, familial status or national origin in their real estate appraisal analysis.

The bill also directs the County Office of Human Rights to engage in a public awareness campaign by January 2024 to provide education about the ban, including informing residents how to file a claim.

The Prince George’s County Association of Realtors has written a letter in support of the bill.

A public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 7, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.