*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS^® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section.

Q: My seller is a priest and wants us to include in the listing that the property has been blessed and sanctified, including Holy Water around the entire outside of the dwelling. I’m worried that this could be a Fair Housing violation. What should I do?

A: You’re right to be worried. By including the seller’s desired language in the listing, it could be seen as indicating a preference for those buyers who share the seller’s religious beliefs. That would be a violation of Fair Housing, and also likely a violation of the Code of Ethics. If your client is insistent on using language such as this, you should direct them to an attorney who specializes in Fair Housing work.  

Have a question about this article? Submit it to the Legal Hotline!

The Legal Hotline is a member benefit that has been supporting members for over 25 years. Our team of lawyers answers your important questions about real estate transactions quickly and accurately (usually within three business hours!).

Here are some tips to help make the Legal Hotline work for you!