When it comes to hiring a good REALTOR, you'll likely get someone full of knowledge. You'll feel like you can ask them anything about real estate and they will have the answer. Whether it's about how to price your Nashville home for sale or it's about the state of the current market, they will have the right answers for you.
However, the Fair Housing Act doesn't allow REALTORS to answer every question you might ask. This act is designed to protect people from discrimination when buying a home, renting a home or gaining financing for housing. It's illegal to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, the presence of children, and national origin.
While your real estate agent may want to answer your questions, there are a few they may not answer. Here are a few questions you may not get answers to when you ask a REALTOR.
Is the neighborhood safe?
Since the word "safe" is subjective, agents will likely not answer this question. Your definition of safe may be different than theirs. While you will likely not get an answer from your agent, you can visit websites online to find out about crime stats and other important information when it comes to safety.
Is this area a good place for raising a family?
This goes along with the safety question above as agents won't likely comment on whether an area of Nashville is good for families or not. While an agent may not be breaking the law if they try to answer this question, they may imply something that could be taken the wrong way.
If they tell you a neighborhood is family-friendly, it could make a family without kids feel unwelcome. However, if they say it's not family-friendly, it may sound like kids aren't welcome in the neighborhood. It's best to do your own research and look into playgrounds, YMCAs, schools, recreational centers and other things you may enjoy for your family.
Are the Schools Good?
Another question you may struggle to get an answer two from a REALTOR, how good or bad the schools are isn't something your agent can answer. The answer could be taken as an option on race and it's rather subjective. Your definition of good schools may be different from your agent's definition.
It's best to do your own research and look at sites that rank schools, along with the reviews from parents in the area. You can also look at the school websites and tour the schools before you settle on a neighborhood in Nashville.
Who lives in this neighborhood?
Your agent cannot answer this question because they may be commenting on religion or race. Good agents won't comment on who lives in a certain area or anything socioeconomic. It's best to do your own research when it comes to this question.
When you start looking for a house in Nashville, you want to make sure you get the answers you need for your questions. These four questions should be answered by your own research. Take the time to find out for yourself as your REALTOR will likely not comment on any of these questions.