Medium risksteering

Can you say "great schools" in a real estate listing?

Risky. School-quality claims can steer, and ratings change.

Why it gets flagged

Statements about school quality are commonly cited in steering complaints, because school ratings correlate with the demographics of an area. Agents are generally advised to point buyers to official sources rather than characterize schools themselves.

Say "near schools" or name the district neutrally, and let buyers check ratings from the district or state.

Instead of

Top-rated schools just minutes away.

Write

Nearby schools just minutes away.

What to say instead

  • near schools
  • zoned for the district’s public schools (buyers should verify current boundaries)
  • close to an elementary school

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Related phrases

7 phrases to stop using in listings

A one-page guide with the neutral wording to use instead.

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General information, not legal advice. Fair Housing rules, MLS rules and local law vary; your broker and an attorney are the authorities. The phrase check is rule-based and cannot catch everything.