What Is Steering?
Steering is the illegal practice of an agent directing homebuyers toward or away from certain neighborhoods based on a protected characteristic like race or national origin, rather than the buyer's own stated preferences.
Why it matters
It's a direct violation of the Fair Housing Act, even when done subtly (e.g., only showing listings in certain areas) rather than through explicit statements.
Related Terms
More Buying Terms
This definition is provided for general educational purposes and is not financial, legal, tax, or real estate advice. Verify important decisions with appropriately qualified professionals.
Understand a property's costs and risks before you make an offer
Use the free calculator for your own numbers, or analyze a specific home before you commit.
Or analyze a specific property: Essential Property Analysis, $19 · Property Decision Analysis, $49 · Professional Property Analysis, $99. You choose the depth before you pay.