An African American woman in Virginia Beach faced discrimination during her home purchase after the seller discovered her race.
Dr. Raven Baxter, a molecular biologist, was in the process of purchasing a condominium in Virginia Beach. She signed the contract and made a down payment to secure her dream home. However, after learning of Dr. Baxter's race, the homeowner chose to withdraw from the transaction.
This incident sparked discussions about continued discrimination in the real estate market. According to the National Fair Housing Alliance, “An investigation found that 87 percent of real estate agents participated in racial steering, opting to show their clients homes only in neighborhoods where most of the neighbors were of their same race”.
Racial steering, like redlining, contributes to racial discrimination and housing inequity. Redlining involves banks and insurance companies denying services to certain areas based on racial composition. These places were highlighted in red on maps, indicating a high risk for investment.
Redlining reinforces racial segregation, lowers property values, and restricts minorities' ability to buy homes and advance economically.
Dr. Baxter has the right to sue the homeowner under the Fair Housing Act of 1968. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin.
According to reports, the deal will be finalized this summer following conversations with the homeowner. But considering the circumstances and the owner's initial racial bias, would you continue to purchase the home if you were in her shoes? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
If you’re interested in gaining knowledge to help you invest in real estate, definitely tune in to my show, Black Real Estate Dialogue. You can watch on YouTube and you can listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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