In Texas, what should be avoided in marketing language regarding neighborhoods?

• A. Language implying preference for or against certain groups; avoid terms that stereotype or exclude protected classes.
• B. Neutral, non-discriminatory descriptions of amenities.
• C. Detailed pricing information in neighborhood descriptions.
• D. Mentioning school districts and safety statistics.

Answer: (A)

In neighborhood marketing, you must avoid any language that implies a preference for or against people based on protected characteristics. This is illegal and unethical under fair housing laws, which prohibit advertising that discriminates against race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, and other protected classes. The best approach is to describe the neighborhood in neutral, factual terms—focus on the property’s features, nearby amenities, schools, parks, safety data, transport access, and other objective details—without suggesting who should or shouldn’t live there.

Neutral descriptions of amenities and features are appropriate because they inform buyers without stereotyping or excluding groups. Details like pricing must be accurate and non-discriminatory, and when presenting information such as school districts or crime statistics, keep it factual and relevant to the property, not used to steer specific groups to or away from an area.