I Love Everyday People
About a month ago I went to lunch with one of my investor clients and her son, in his early 20's. The conversation turned to technology and the things he takes for granted that his mom and I had to integrate into our lives.
As the conversation continued it ended up taking us to other differences between life in the 1960's and 70's when his mom and I were coming of age. We talked about our war and the war of his generation and how the media changed everything. Not to make lite of death, but 5,000 or so dead Americans in almost 10 years of war isn't too bad, considering we were in the 60,000+ range in less time in Viet Nam.
Before long, we were talking about race relations and trying to draw the mind back to what it was like for people of color in our society then... it was totally unimaginable for our young friend to think that his friends of color would not be allowed to socialize in the same circles he is in...and so many other injustices that have come along way to being cured...but still have a way to go.
Read what a white friend of mine just went through and tell me if you agree with his actions...
I had a showing scheduled with a brand new buyer this morning. I had spoken with this gentleman over the phone and emailed a few times while getting him pre-qualified and he seemed like a nice enough guy. I met him at the first property we were supposed to see today. When he got to the property he introduced me to his wife. Again, she seems like a nice enough lady.
Before I could open the front door something came out of her mouth that absolutely shocked me! “Do you think there are many blacks in this neighborhood? We’re not racist but…we’ve seen what happens when blacks start moving into a neighborhood.” I can’t believe I just heard someone actually say that in the year 2010.
It was so blatant that, for a spit second, I thought I was being tested somehow. Are they working for the government or something? Who the hell thinks that way nowadays? Broker Bryant actually wrote a post about this subject once. He’s right, the first thing a racist says is “I’m not a racist but…”, as if that excuses them for their actions. I have to tell you folks, I spent 14 years in the Marine Corps and this kind of crap is not tolerated there. I also grew up in a very diversified area. So I haven’t had a whole lot of experience with racist people.
My response was “You may not know this, but it is illegal for me to answer that question. When you get home, go ahead and google The Fair Housing Act.” She looked a bit taken aback but gracefully apologized for making me feel uncomfortable. Now that we had that behind us I decided to go ahead and show them the house. After touring the house, we decided to have a seat and discuss their offer. I also took the time to discuss short sales and make sure they know what the process involves.
While explaining the differences between foreclosure and short sales, the husband decided to test me further. He looks up and says “Do you think the foreclosures in this area are caused by all the Spaniards?” Now, I was polite the first time and didn’t seem to get my point across, so this time I decided to try another angle. “Actually, we don’t have very many Europeans living in the area permanently. Most international buyers purchase investment properties and use them for holiday homes.”
You should have seen his face! He must have stared at me for a full minute blank faced. After a very uncomfortable silence I said “I already told you that’s not the way I think, it’s not legal, and it’s not the way we do business. I’m hoping this is the last time that sort of thing comes up. You are welcome to your opinion, but please don’t try to include me in it.” I think I got my point across this time.
We were all raised differently, but no matter how you were raised, The Fair Housing Act applies to all of us. It’s not a guideline, it’s not a rule, it’s not a matter of ethics, It’s The Law!
Your friendly Davenport, FL Realtor®
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