Sharon Bartlett Real Estate Magazine

PUBLISHER

Sharon Bartlet

DRE#0684103

o: (214) 914-9272

sharon@sharonbartlet.com www.sharonbartletthomes.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Eric Lawrence Frazier, MBA

Office: (800) 401-8994 Ext. 703

Direct: (714) 361-2105

eric.frazier@thepowerisnow.com www.thepowerisnow.com www.blogtalkradiocom/thepowerisnow

ADMINISTRATOR

Erika Reyes

Office: (800) 401-8994 Ext. 703

Direct: (714) 361-2105

eric.frazier@thepowerisnow.com www.thepowerisnow.com

WRITER

Alvin Magua

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Timothy Hornu

CONTACT

info@thepowerisnow.com (800) 401-8994 ext. 701

REAL ESTATE ARTICLES

Press Release for May 6th, 2024 Texas: Navigating Climate Shifts: Texas Real Estate in the Face of Change

PRESS RELEASE

Press Release for May 14th, 2024

Press Release for May 8th, 2024

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home is not only upgraded but move-in ready. As you enter, you’re greeted by stunning hardwood floors that guide you through the formal dining room, which doubles as a fantastic flex space. These beautiful hardwoods extend throughout most of the home. Be prepared to be impressed by the fabulous kitchen, featuring crisp white-painted cabinets, tumbled marble backsplash, new stainless-steel appliances, an island & separate breakfast bar. The luxurious primary suite is located downstairs & features a beautifully updated spa-like bathroom. Upstairs, you’ll find a huge game room that serves as the perfect hub for the upstairs secondary bedrooms, providing everyone with their own retreat. The upstairs bathroom has also undergone a remodel. Outside, the backyard boasts a sparkling pool surrounded by a concrete patio and a charming extended & covered wood deck, creating the ultimate setting for outdoor enjoyment & relaxation

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome home! Have a seat and relax on the covered front porch with your favorite book or beverage. This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom gem offers versatile living spaces. The front living room doubles as a formal dining area or study, perfect for your lifestyle. Enjoy the open concept main living area, seamlessly connecting to the kitchen and dining area. Ample cabinetry, an island, and an eat-on breakfast bar make the kitchen a chef’s delight. Privacy is ensured with split secondary bedrooms from the master suite. Outside, the large backyard beckons for play and entertainment. Schedule your appointment today!

PROPERTY INFORMATION

Discover serene country living on a 12-acre ranchette near Lake Fork. Tucked at the end of a long driveway, this home features custom finishes in a tranquil setting. Enter thru grand double doors into the bright interior with vaulted ceilings, setting the stage for a luxurious living experience. Featuring an open floorplan, the heart of this home is the stunning kitchen with a massive island, farmhouse sink, granite countertops, & elegant white cabinets. Wood & brass accents add tasteful flair, while a spacious walk-in pantry with custom shelving & an imported Belgian sink adds functionality. The vaulted primary bedroom is a retreat with a spa-like bathroom & an oversized walk-in closet with built-in drawers, custom shelving, recessed lights, & a vanity table.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to your new home! Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence offers a perfect blend of comfort & style. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a spacious formal living & dining area, ideal for hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings with loved ones. The heart of the home lies in the wellappointed kitchen & family room located at the rear of the home. Whether you’re cozying up by the fireplace on chilly nights or enjoying the company of friends, this versatile area offers endless possibilities. The primary suite is conveniently situated downstairs. Upstairs, you’ll find 3 additional bedrooms, along with a well-appointed bathroom. The expansive backyard beckons with endless possibilities & awaits your personal touch. Conveniently located near schools, parks, and shopping, this home offers the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience

PRESS RELEASE

NATIONAL FAIR HOUSING ALLIANCE ISSUES STATEMENT LAUDING THE FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF SAN FRANCISCO ON SELECTING ALANNA MCCARGO TO LEAD THE AGENCY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 8, 2024

Contact: Janelle Brevard | jbrevard@nationalfairhousing.org

Washington, D.C. — The National Fair Housing Alliance® (NFHA™) applauds the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco’s (the Bank) announcement that Alanna McCargo will become the Bank’s next president and chief executive officer.

Ms. McCargo is a noted and well-regarded financial services expert and leader having most recently served as the Government National Mortgage Association’s (Ginnie Mae) president. She was the first woman and woman of color to hold the position. She also served as a senior advisor on housing and finance policy to former HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge. Throughout her impressive career, Ms. McCargo has pioneered and championed policies and programs to advance fair housing and fair lending principles including leading groundbreaking research, while at the Urban Institute, on solutions for expanding access to credit for underserved groups, broadening support for small dollar mortgages, and dismantling barriers to the provisioning of fair and affordable housing.

Ms. McCargo takes the helm of the Bank on the heels of the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) examination of almost 100 years of operation for the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) System writ large. FHFA’s report provided a comprehensive review of the nation’s FHLBanks and a discussion of how the system can best fulfill its mission of 1) providing stable and reliable liquidity to member institutions; and 2) supporting housing and community development. The report lifts up a number of recommendations for reforming the FHLBank System, including proposals championed by NFHA. Importantly, FHFA recommended the Federal Home Loan Banks deepen and expand mission-oriented programs to support sustainable housing finance and

community development products that lack a reliable secondary market outlet. FHFA also supported increasing the 10 percent minimum contribution requirement for the FHLBanks’ Affordable Housing Programs. While the current statute establishes the 10 percent minimum contribution, FHLBanks are able to voluntarily increase their contributions.

The FHLBanks are an important and integral component of the U.S. housing finance market. They play a significant role in helping address America’s fair and affordable housing crisis. NFHA looks forward to continued work with the San Francisco FHLBank as well as other Banks in the FHLBank system to more broadly expand access to sustainable credit to underserved groups.

###

The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) is the country’s only national civil rights organization dedicated solely to eliminating all forms of housing and lending discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for all people. Through its homeownership, credit access, tech equity, education, member services, public policy, community development, and enforcement initiatives, NFHA works to dismantle longstanding barriers to equity and build diverse, inclusive, well-resourced communities.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to your new home! Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence offers a perfect blend of comfort & style. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a spacious formal living & dining area, ideal for hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings with loved ones. The heart of the home lies in the wellappointed kitchen & family room located at the rear of the home. Whether you’re cozying up by the fireplace on chilly nights or enjoying the company of friends, this versatile area offers endless possibilities. The primary suite is conveniently situated downstairs. Upstairs, you’ll find 3 additional bedrooms, along with a well-appointed bathroom. The expansive backyard beckons with endless possibilities & awaits your personal touch. Conveniently located near schools, parks, and shopping, this home offers the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience

PRESS RELEASE

NFHA AND FELLOW FAIR HOUSING ADVOCATES FILE COMPLAINT AGAINST NATIONAL TENANT SCREENING SOFTWARE COMPANY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 14, 2024

Media Contacts:

National Fair Housing Alliance: Janelle Brevard | jbrevard@nationalfairhousing.org

Fair Housing Rights Center: Angela McIver | amciver@fairhousingrights.org

Housing Equality Center: Rachel Wentworth | wentworth@equalhousing.org

NFHA and Fellow Fair Housing Advocates File Complaint Against National Tenant Screening Software Company

Complaint Alleges Discrimination Against Housing Voucher Holders in Memphis, TN, and Philadelphia, PA

Washington, D.C. — Today, the National Fair Housing Alliance® (NFHA™), the Fair Housing Rights Center in Southeastern Pennsylvania (FHRC), and the Housing Equality Center of Pennsylvania (HECP) filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) against Tenant Turner, Inc., for its treatment of Memphis and Philadelphia residents seeking housing opportunities.

Tenant Turner is a Richmond, VA-based web lead management and tenant screening software that provides services for property managers nationwide including pre-qualification of prospective tenants. Tenant Turner is believed to display thousands of listings on its website from throughout the country. NFHA, FHRC, and HECP’s complaint alleges that Tenant Turner discriminates based on race by facilitating landlords to generate listings on its website that display a refusal to rent to people who use Housing Choice Vouchers (“HCV”) and designing an algorithm that prohibits voucher holders from scheduling a viewing of rental units that display that refusal in the cities of Memphis, TN, and Philadelphia, PA. The HCV program ensures that people, including veterans, whose incomes have not kept up with rising housing costs can still access stable housing by paying landlords directly for all or part of their rent.

NFHA, FHRC, and HECP’s investigation found that Tenant Turner displays listings online that are “not available for tenants with… a housing voucher,” which is language that Tenant Turner offers to landlords to indicate whether they want to rent to prospective tenants with vouchers, even

in cities or counties with local ordinances that prohibit discrimination against source of income, including voucher holders. Through over 40 tests of Tenant Turner’s pre-screening survey that sets up showings of rental units on listings that display housing choice voucher restrictions, NFHA, FHRC, and HECP found that testers with housing vouchers were unable to schedule a viewing of the rental unit. The testers would reach a screen from Tenant Turner that stated, “Sorry,” and “This property is not available for tenants with… a housing voucher.” Fair housing testing is a controlled method of documenting the quality and quantity of information provided to home seekers by rental firms and their housing managers. Testing also helps uncover the nature and extent of potential housing discrimination. Through data collected from August 2022 to March 2023, NFHA’s analysis revealed more than 4,005 listings with housing choice voucher restrictions in 23 localities with source of income protections, including Memphis, TN, and Philadelphia, PA.

Tenant screening platforms, like Tenant Turner, that facilitate discrimination against HCV holders deprive families of the right to choose the housing that is best for them and increase the likelihood that people will experience housing instability, face homelessness, or suffer other harms. In 2023, the online home rental market was valued at around $18.24 billion, with significant expansions anticipated in the years to come. Consumers’ search for housing is becoming increasingly digital, and while this can make information on units and neighborhoods more broadly accessible, it can also aid in discrimination by making it easier for landlords or housing providers to choose home seekers based on their preferences or biases. With more and more housing providers using platforms, like Tenant Turner, that automate the tenant screening and rental viewing process, discrimination against HCV holders is now increasingly encoded or facilitated by algorithms and software.

The nation is in the midst of a fair and affordable housing crisis with housing experts projecting the U.S. needs at least an additional 7.3 million affordable housing units. Moreover, wages have not kept pace with rising housing costs. While housing prices have increased by roughly 160 percent since 2000, wages have only increased by about 70 percent.

“Rising rents are putting housing out of reach for millions, particularly people of color, persons living with disabilities, low- and moderate-income families, veterans, and frontline workers who have been hardest-hit by the ongoing COVID-19 health and economic crisis. When real estate companies and property managers deny voucher holders, they are denying people access to safe, affordable housing and the many opportunities that come with that. More protections are needed for renters who rely on housing vouchers, and everyone, including government, must utilize their powers to prevent the unfair practice of discrimination against those who use the vital HCV program,” said Lisa Rice, NFHA’s President and CEO.

“Philadelphia is known for many things, including being the poorest large city in the nation. Also, the Philadelphia Fair Practices Ordinance protects people based on their source of income. However, when an online tenant screening company’s software excludes people with Housing Choice Vouchers, that is discriminatory and cruel. Denying humans access to housing violates their basic needs and civil rights. Corporations benefit from government support, and low-income persons, regardless of race, should also. As a nation, we have so many resources that offset the need for safe, discriminatory-free, and affordable housing. The HCV program is a housing solution for low- and moderate-income persons needing financial assistance. Nonetheless, discriminatory practices by online tenant screening companies’ software create

barriers to housing and manufacture new social problems, including being unhoused, which could contribute to other challenges that impact us all,” said Angela McIver, FHRC’s CEO.

“In HECP’s testing investigations over the past three years, we have found that rental housing providers in Philadelphia tell prospective tenants that Housing Choice Vouchers are not accepted at their properties 68 percent of the time. These investigations tell us that long-standing source of income protections are routinely and blatantly disregarded by landlords, property managers, and rental agents throughout the city, a practice that has a disproportionate impact on Black residents. It is apparent that voucher holders regularly face unlawful discrimination as an additional barrier in their search for a limited supply of safe and affordable rental housing in Philadelphia,” said Rachel Wentworth, HECP’s Executive Director.

The alleged discriminatory practices of Tenant Turner are particularly harmful to Black residents who have long been impacted by inequitable policies and practices, including redlining, appraisal bias, racially restrictive covenants, racial steering, algorithmic bias, and other discriminatory practices. In both Memphis and Philadelphia, Black households are over-represented in the households participating in the HCV Program. In Philadelphia over 80 percent of HCV holders are Black whereas only 9 percent of voucher holders are White, despite the city’s renter population having similar split of Black and White renters, with 44 percent being Black and 39 percent being White. In Memphis, Black residents are similarly disproportionately represented, with 96 percent of households receiving vouchers being Black and only 1 percent of voucher holders being White. The City of Memphis’ renters are about 69 percent Black and 20.6 percent White.

The work that provided the basis for this press release was supported by funding under a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The substance and findings of the work are dedicated to the public. The author and publisher are solely responsible for the accuracy of the statements and interpretations contained in this publication. Such interpretations do not necessarily reflect the views of the Federal Government. ###

The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) is the country’s only national civil rights organization dedicated solely to eliminating all forms of housing and lending discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for all people. As the trade association for over 170 fair housing and justice-centered organizations and individuals throughout the U.S. and its territories, NFHA works to dismantle longstanding barriers to equity and build diverse, inclusive, well-resourced communities.

The mission of the Fair Housing Rights Center in Southeastern Pennsylvania (FHRC) is to ensure equal access to housing opportunities for all. FHRC serves 16 counties in Pennsylvania and addresses fair housing and lending laws to achieve its mission.

The mission of the Housing Equality Center of Pennsylvania is to advance fair and equal access to housing opportunities for all Pennsylvanians.

https://nationalfairhousing.org/nfha-and-fellow-fair-housing-advocates-file-complaint-againstnational-tenant-screening-software-company/

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Your search ends here! Welcome to your dream home. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom gem features an office downstairs, perfect for those work-from-home days or easily convertible to a 4th bedroom. The kitchen features granite counters, gas cooking and a breakfast bar island, and is open to the eat-in-kitchen area and living room. The living room fireplace insert is perfectly situated on a floor to ceiling accent wall of wood and brass. The primary suite is the perfect oasis to escape to at the end of the day and features another floor to ceiling accent wall and ensuite bathroom with oversized shower. Upstairs, the bonus area offers versatility for a playroom, media space, or whatever suits your lifestyle, along with 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. You’ll love the modern light fixtures illuminating every room throughout the house. Step outside to the fantastic extended covered patio, ideal for entertaining family and friends.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Charming 3 bed, 2 bath home nestled in a no-HOA neighborhood offers a canvas for your dream home! TLC needed, but recent upgrades include a new garage door, hot water heater, and refrigerator. Spacious living areas provide a versatile layout, with a cozy fireplace for chilly nights. The kitchen awaits your personal touch, while the bedrooms offer ample space. The backyard is a nice size and is ready for its transformation. Conveniently located near shops and restaurants, this home is an opportunity to customize and make your own. Don’t miss out on this diamond in the rough!

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Step inside to discover a fresh and inviting interior with brandnew interior paint that provides a modern and neutral backdrop for your furnishings. The open floorplan creates a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying quality family time. Now, the canvas is yours to customize. Bring your own ideas and style to make this home uniquely yours. The possibilities are endless, and with the foundation repairs and recent upgrades, you can focus on the fun aspects of transforming this space into your ideal sanctuary. Conveniently located in the Hallmark community, this home is within reach of nearby amenities and schools. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this home your own. Schedule a showing today and envision the endless potential that awaits in your new home!

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Located in Tara Farms, this one-story home is within walking distance of Joe K. Bryant Elementary. No HOA. This home is well maintained and features a kitchen that is open to the family room. Owners’ suite located at the back of the home with a view of the backyard, large walk in closet. Buyer and buyer’s agent to verify all information. PROPERTY

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Located in the highly sought out Richardson Heights neighborhood, across the street from Dover Elementary school. This home has 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms and a large backyard. Conveniently located close to US 75 – Central Expressway, dining, entertainment, and shopping. Also, just minutes from Cottonwood Park and all its amenities, including a playground, walking trails, tennis & volleyball courts and swimming pool. Home features hard surface flooring throughout, is ready to be occupied or updated to your preferences. PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Texas: Navigating Climate Shifts: Texas Real Estate in the Face of Change

Texas, long associated with majesty and tenacity, is facing a strong adversary: climate change. In this huge state, where the real estate market is as diverse as its landscapes, comprehending the impact of climate change is critical. From the Gulf Coast to the parched plains, stakeholders must understand the long-term implications in order to navigate the changing real estate landscape prudently. This blog digs into the various implications of climate change on Texas real estate, providing valuable insights for making informed decisions in this dynamic environment.

Coastal Conundrum: Texas’ wide coastline combines beauty and vulnerability. Rising sea levels, a symptom of climate change, endanger this treasured landscape, threatening coastal residences and infrastructure. As erosion worsens, buyers and investors must do comprehensive risk assessments. Flood insurance costs and storm surge risk must be carefully balanced against the attractiveness of beachfront living. Prudent planning and adaptation are critical to protecting coastal assets in the face of rising sea levels.

Inland Infernos: Texas’s inland areas suffer from their own climate-related hardships, such as crippling droughts and sweltering heatwaves,

PHOTOS FROM 123RF

away from the coast. As temperatures rise, properties with reliable access to water become valuable commodities. Furthermore, energyefficient elements emerge as selling benefits, providing relief from high utility expenditures during hot summers. Developers, too, must adapt by implementing sustainable measures to battle heat and protect valuable water supplies. In the heart of Texas, resilience is not an option; it is a need.

Fortifying Foundations: Real estate must be fortified against the effects of climate change as it intensifies. Texas’s sustainable development requires the adoption of resilience and adaptation methods. Green infrastructure, ranging from rain gardens to resilient building materials, provides options for stormwater management and extreme weather resilience. Prioritizing resilience allows homeowners and investors to strengthen their homes against climatic uncertainties, establishing long-term communities that are resilient to nature’s whims.

Real estate regulatory frameworks have a big impact on addressing climate change. Texas, aware of its vulnerabilities, has launched efforts such as the Coastal Resiliency Master Plan to strengthen coastal communities against climate hazards. Meanwhile, shifting building rules and zoning restrictions indicate a shift toward climate-resilient standards, influencing the course of property development. Staying on top of regulatory developments is critical for guaranteeing alignment with changing market realities.

Climate change is altering Texas’ real estate environment, bringing equal parts difficulties and possibilities. Stakeholders may confidently negotiate the shifting terrain by understanding the long-term consequences on coastal vulnerability, heat and drought resistance, fortification methods, and regulatory environments. Embracing sustainability and prioritizing resilience are not just goals; they are necessary for developing a vibrant and adaptive real estate market in the face of climate uncertainty. In Texas, as elsewhere, enduring the storm requires planning and

resilience.

Navigate the evolving Texas real estate landscape with Sharon Bartlett, your expert in resilient and sustainable property solutions. As climate change reshapes our environment, making informed decisions is more crucial than ever. Contact Sharon at 214-914-9272 or visit sharonbartletthomes.com to discover how you can invest wisely and secure properties that thrive in the face of climatic challenges. Trust Sharon to guide you through the complexities of today’s market with insight and foresight.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Whether you’re searching for an investment or simply dream of owning a recently renovated home, don’t miss out on exploring all that this remarkable duplex has to offer! Each unit offers two bedrooms and one bathroom, providing ample space for comfortable living. With their thoughtfully designed layouts and abundance of natural light pouring through large windows, these units offer both functionality and aesthetics. For those seeking convenience and security, each unit also comes with its own one-car garage. Great for protecting your vehicle from the elements, it also provides additional storage space.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Experience the ultimate residential playground in the vibrant Waterview neighborhood packed with a ton of amenities including golf course, water park, tennis courts, multiple fishing spots, swimming pool, etc. This spacious light & bright 4BR home features NO carpet, LED lighting, updated lighting & plumbing fixtures, wrought iron stair railings, cathedral ceilings, & arches. The kitchen is equipped with a gas cooktop, built in oven & microwave, beautiful quartz countertops & black stainless Samsung appliances. Located downstairs, the primary suite includes a large primary bathroom with ample closet space, dual vanities & separate bathtub & shower. An office is also located downstairs, across from a full bathroom. buyer should perform their due diligence & make their own assessments.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to your dream home! This functional 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence is a perfect blend of modern style & comfort. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by the seamless flow of hard surface flooring throughout the entire home—no carpet in sight. Equipped with stainless steel appliances, this kitchen is a practical space for all your cooking endeavors. Step outside into your own private oasis—a large backyard awaits, complete with a covered patio. This outdoor space is perfect for hosting barbecues, enjoying morning coffee, or simply basking in the beauty of your surroundings. The covered patio provides a sheltered retreat, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors in any weather. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this house your home—schedule a viewing today & experience the luxury & comfort that awaits you.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to a cozy and practical 2-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom condo, covering a comfortable 1, 300 square feet in a secure gated community. As you enter, you’ll find a welcoming living space that’s perfect for everyday living. Both bedrooms suites are located on the 2nd level and feature their own full bathroom. Step outside onto the modest balcony, a nice spot to relax or enjoy a cup of coffee. Residents have access to basic amenities like a community pool, and wellmaintained common areas. Situated close to essential services, shopping, and entertainment options, this condo offers a convenient lifestyle without unnecessary extravagance. Covered parking spot #253 is assigned to this uni

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

PRESS RELEASE

HISTORIC LEGAL BATTLE UNVEILED AGAINST DISCRIMINATORY FLORIDA HOUSING LAW SB 264

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 6, 2024

MEDIA CONTACTS:

National Fair Housing Alliance: Janelle Brevard | jbrevard@nationalfairhousing.org

Asian Real Estate Association of America: David Siroty | david@imagineprstrategy.com

Historic Legal Battle Unveiled Against Discriminatory Florida Housing Law SB 264

Advocates Contest Xenophobic Restrictions on Property Ownership, Assert Violation of Federal Fair Housing Act

Washington, D.C. — On May 6, 2024, the National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA™), the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), Housing Opportunities Project for Excellence, Inc., and the Fair Housing Center of the Greater Palm Beaches filed a fair housing discrimination suit in federal court in Miami challenging Florida’s SB 264, a state law that greatly restricts people from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria from purchasing real property in the state. The law almost completely prohibits Chinese citizens and people domiciled in China from buying property in the state. People domiciled in one of the other six countries are prohibited from buying real property within ten miles of critical infrastructure facilities or military institutions—a restriction that covers 98.5% of all residential land in the state.

“Xenophobia has no place in our country—and let there be no mistake, that’s precisely what SB 264 is,” said Noah Baron, Assistant Director of Litigation at Advancing Justice – AAJC. “This legislation echoes last century’s ‘alien land laws,’ which also restricted the property rights of Asian Americans on the basis of stereotypes and prejudice. The United States must not continue down this dangerous road; we know where it leads because we have traveled it before: during World War II when unfounded suspicions of Japanese Americans led to the forced imprisonment of over 120,000 Japanese

Americans by the U.S. government and going as far back as the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act.”

The lawsuit filed by Relman Colfax, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC, and Courtney Cunningham asserts that SB 264 violates the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits acts that are motivated by a person’s national origin or have a disproportionate harmful effect on people from specific countries. As described in the complaint, SB 264 is based on stereotyped and xenophobic generalizations, and is transparently motivated by discrimination against people from the seven targeted countries.

“SB 264 is reminiscent of early twentieth century land laws that attempted to prevent Asian and other immigrants deemed undesirable from settling in the United States. This law is one of the most discriminatory housing prohibitions this country has seen since the Fair Housing Act was passed in 1968. Legislation such as this prevents people from purchasing homes and becoming, or continuing to be, valued members of the community. SB 264 cannot be permitted to stand,” said Keenya Robertson, President and CEO of Housing Opportunities Project for Excellence, Inc.

“This is a momentous day for AREAA and our 19,000 members as it is the first time we have filed suit to protect the rights of the AANHPI community,” said Jamie Tian, President of AREAA. “SB 264 must be defeated. Florida legislators and Governor DeSantis have wrongly targeted Chinese, and other select groups of immigrants. They have opened the door for greater discrimination while creating increased barriers of homeownership entry for prospective AANHPI homebuyers and sellers. My parents came to the U.S. from China as PhD candidates and they eventually bought a home in Irvine, California. I shudder to think about what my parents would have gone through today if they had settled in Florida. It’s infuriating to realize we now live in a reality where government leaders are putting homeownership out of reach for AANHPI people in Florida.”

The law was promoted by Governor DeSantis who described it as part of an effort to prevent people from certain countries from “worming” their way into American society. The bill’s sponsor described it as targeting foreign agents, but its broad sweep captures people lawfully in the United States and vetted by immigration officials such as people on student visas, domestic employment and seasonal worker visas, and visas for victims of criminal activity and human trafficking. People from the targeted countries who already own property in the state are required to register with the Florida Department of Commerce. The penalties for violating the law include felonies punishable by as much as five years imprisonment and can be applied to buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.

“The federal Fair Housing Act was signed into law to eliminate the race-based barriers to housing that have plagued our nation since its inception. SB 264 is contrary to the spirit of our nation’s fair housing laws and tramples on the rights of people of Asian descent and other immigrants. It sends the dangerous message that discrimination in housing based on national origin is acceptable in the state of Florida,” said Lisa Rice, President and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance. “We look forward to vindicating the fair housing rights of Asians and other immigrants in Florida and making it possible for them to secure stable housing.”

The sponsors’ defense of the bill is to cite national security concerns, but people from the targeted countries make up a tiny percentage of all residential property buyers in the state and the legislative record identified no link between the purchase of residential property and security threats. With no basis, SB 264 explicitly targets individuals from the seven targeted countries for disfavored treatment while imposing no similar restrictions on nationals of any other country. The legislation impedes the pursuit of the American dream for families from China and the other countries who aspire to build a life in this country free from discrimination.

“The people of Florida deserve better than a government that says ‘you are not welcome’ to large groups of people just because they were born in a particular country,” said Vince Larkins, President and CEO of Fair Housing Center for the Greater Palm Beaches. “We cannot sit idly by while housing discrimination is now the official policy of the State of Florida.”

“It is our expectation that the court will find this explicitly discriminatory law as a violation of the Fair Housing Act and strike it down,” said Reed Colfax, a partner with Relman Colfax.

To view the full complaint, click here.

###

The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) is the country’s only national civil rights organization dedicated solely to eliminating all forms of housing and lending discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for all people. Through its homeownership, credit access, tech equity, education, member services, public policy, community development, and enforcement initiatives, NFHA works to dismantle longstanding barriers to equity and build diverse, inclusive, well-resourced communities.

https://nationalfairhousing.org/historic-legal-battle-unveiled-against-discriminatory-florida-housinglaw-sb-264/

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with incredible potential! This diamond in the rough is a fixer-upper enthusiast’s dream, awaiting your personal touch and creativity. The open floor plan invites endless possibilities, while the generous bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests. Imagine transforming the backyard into your private oasis. Conveniently located near schools, parks, and amenities, this property is priced to sell. Bring your vision and turn this canvas into your dream home. TLC required, but the possibilities are endless. Don’t miss out on this opportunity

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Check out this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home with a 3-car garage! It’s got everything you could want - from an amazing outdoor area to a game room and media room. Inside, you’ll find beautiful built-ins, gorgeous iron balusters, and a mix of carpet, tile, and wood flooring that adds a touch of luxury. The kitchen is a dream with granite countertops, top-notch cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances. Right off the kitchen is a butlers pantry to ease in entertaining. The family room is in the heart of the home and features a double stacked mantle! With the primary bedroom and study downstairs and three spacious bedrooms upstairs, there’s plenty of room for everyone. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this beauty - so bring your qualified buyers!

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

This home offers a fantastic opportunity for customization and personalization. This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a 2-car garage. The generous living areas boast a flexible layout, complemented by a welcoming fireplace for cozy evenings. Separate formal living and dining areas are located in the front of the home. The kitchen awaits your creative touch, while the kitchen dining area overlooks the backyard koi pond. The backyard presents ample space for transformation to suit your desires. Conveniently located near the lake, shops and eateries. Seize the chance to make this diamond in the rough your own

SINGLE FAMILY HOME

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to this stunning 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home in McKinney. Built in 2007, this home offers a blend of comfort, style, & functionality. Step inside to discover a move-in ready home with fresh paint & new carpeting throughout. The main level welcomes you with a spacious den, perfect for a home office or study. Entertain guests in the large dining area, then retreat to the inviting family room, bathed in natural light, overlooking the tranquil backyard. The primary suite on the main floor offers a peaceful sanctuary with views of the wooded area behind the home. Upstairs, discover 4 additional bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms & a versatile multipurpose room, ready to be transformed into a game room, second family room, or whatever suits your lifestyle best. Outside, enjoy the privacy & serenity of the wooded backdrop, creating a peaceful retreat for relaxation & outdoor gatherings. Situated in a desirable neighborhood, within close proximity to schools, parks, shopping, & dining.

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Welcome to the beautiful Stonebridge Ranch in McKinney! This home features a versatile layout with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, formal dining & living rooms, a study and a spacious family room. Hardwood floors adorn formals, family room & study. The second-floor game room could also be used as a 5th bedroom. Retreat to the expansive upstairs master suite with a large walk-in closet, dual vanity, garden tub, and separate shower. Ample storage in the 3-car tandem garage. Extended utility room offers space for a second fridge. Outside, youll enjoy the backyard pool with plenty of space for entertaining

PROPERTY INFORMATION:

Nestled in the charming Lakeside at Heath neighborhood, this home boasts 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms on the main level, while upstairs features an expansive bedroom & ensuite bathroom. This versatile upper room can serve as a loft, additional living space, game room, secondary master suite, or even a mother-inlaw suite! The main floor presents an inviting open living area, a kitchen equipped with a bar top & island, & a spacious breakfast nook flooded with natural light from numerous windows. With summer almost here, your backyard oasis awaits - enjoy grilling on the covered patio with plenty of space to socialize or play in the backyard. The garage offers added insulation & an internal air conditioning system, ensuring comfort year-round. Retreat to the owner’s suite, complete with additional vents for cooling & a luxurious soaking tub, offering a tranquil escape for your mind, body, & soul. This remarkable home eagerly awaits its new owners to make cherished memories.

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