The Importance of Using Inclusive Language in Real Estate

When it comes to fair housing in DC, we sometimes find ourselves asking “Is that legal?” and following up with, “And is it ethical?” There’s a difference, and trends in real estate certainly have not always embraced that second question. 

In 2020, there was a shift in the broader political landscape that accelerated the conversation around equitable and accessible housing. Certainly, the bigger problems to solve when it comes to racism in the housing industry are how we undo the wrongs that purposefully exclusive systems have wrought, and how we can dismantle discriminatory practices that still take place in the buying, lending, and appraisal industries. If you want to learn more, we highly recommend reading The Color of Law (as a starting point!). 

But, a pretty immediate and easily actionable change are the words we use in our listings, when talking to residents, and even when we discuss things internally. The language we use matters. If you aren’t already familiar with the updated real estate terminology, this post is for you! These are just some of the update real estate terms that you need to know if you’re working in the housing industry in DC and beyond. 

Master Bedroom

In 1995, HUD actually determined that using “master” as a descriptor was not against fair housing laws; but that doesn’t mean industry standards can’t change and promote language that doesn’t have racist roots. There’s no reason to use a term that evokes slavery. Updating property descriptions to erase that word from the real estate vernacular is the clearest example of this industry-wide progress. What we say now: primary bedroom/suite, main bedroom, largest bedroom.

Landlord

The industry hasn’t exactly caught up here but it’s worth noting that the term “landlord” is also outdated and offensive. While it’s still used in many places, we choose to use language that isn’t indicative of medieval serfdom. What we say now: housing provider, lessor, homeowner.

Section 8

Using the term “Section 8” isn’t illegal. In fact, you’ll see it all over HUD’s website. But, Section 8 has such a negative connotation that it actually contributes to biases against households who are recipients of rental assistance. It’s a term you’ll hear used to describe a “type” of tenant rather than the program itself, and that stereotype is a problem. Discrimination based on source of income is illegal in DC and Flock, we talk about these programs and their clients in respectful terms. What we say now: Housing Choice Voucher Program or the specific program name, if not HCVP

Voucher Tenant

As stated above, rental subsidy programs and the tenants who use them often get stereotyped, ignored, and discriminated against. Internally, we strive to strike this type of language from our vocabulary. Change happens with us first. Especially when we know that working with rental assistance programs is a win-win for the community. What we say now: voucher recipients, tenants who receive rental assistance, or recipients of (insert specific program name here) grant.

Mother-in-Law Suite

In DC, it’s illegal to discriminate based on familial status. Appearing to designate in your rental property listing that certain rooms are meant for one type of person or that you are catering to a traditional family dynamic doesn’t line up with fair housing. Rather than offending nontraditonal families and implying they aren’t welcome, the real industry needs to use inclusive terms. What we say now: guest suite, separate suite, additional suite.

Nursery

Along the same lines as the above, there’s no reason to exclude folks who don’t fit the traditional family narrative that pervades real estate listings.  What we say now: additional bedroom, flexible living space.

Jack & Jill Bathroom and His & Hers Sinks

Talk about outdated! There’s no reason to assign gender to rooms and exclude folks who don’t identify with them. This is sexist terminology that reinforces gender norms. If our local bar can get this right, surely real estate professionals can do better, too.  What we say now: adjoining bathroom; dual sinks, shared bathroom/vanity.

Walking Distance and Walk-in Closet

This one might not jump out at you as being discriminatory, but calling out proximity to neighborhood amenities by saying they are within walking distance is ableist, and excludes folks who are differently mobile. It’s better to factual when possible. What we say now: X blocks away, X miles to; wardrobe, dressing room.

While none of these changes are legally required, it’s a matter of ethics and inclusivity. Using affirmative language matters. When we buy, sell, and manage properties, we are obligated to serve the clients and residents who live in them and treat them respectfully and equitably. If you’re the cautious sort, using affirmative and inclusive language is also the safe bet, and can help you steer clear of any discrimination claims.

This list isn’t comprehensive, as anti-racist and inclusive learning continues and will keep shaping our industry. Do you have any alternative language to add that you’ve been using? Let us know in the comments below!

Further reading: Now that you’re equipped with updated real estate terminology, maybe you’re ready to screen your first tenants! Take a look at our Best Practices for Tenant Screening in DC.