Discrimination does still exist, of course, despite governmental, professional, and civic efforts. Race is the most obvious basis for discrimination, but religion, national origin, sex, marital status, and children in the family all may predispose an agent to show or not show certain properties to certain people. Such activity is called steering, and it is against the law.

If you feel you are being steered, for a reason other than your ability to afford the home in question, you can change the situation. If the agent in question is a member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), call or write your local Realtor® board first. You can find that group listed in the white pages of the phone book or in the yellow pages where real-estate agents run advertisements. In the corner of some of the larger ads, there is likely to be a line such as “Member, Upstate County Board of Realtors®.” You can usually find that board's office in the town where the county seat is located or in the largest community in the county.

If you wish to take this action against discriminatory practices further, you can notify your state real-estate commission. Proven cases of discrimination can result in suspension or loss of license for the agent involved. Sometimes just the threat of reporting discriminatory practices will put an end to them. Another source of advice is your local community housing resources board.