Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Illinois

Can I sue a realtor for discrimination, punitive damages and possibly the amount we overpayed for a home? Long story short, is I have a timeline from the homeowner to compare to text messages and voice messages to show that this realtor was lying to us. The sale of the home was definitely steered toward the other buyer for a reason that is unknown to me. I found this out and notified the homeowner. They had a signed deal with another buyer, but I made a high offer to make sure we had a higher bid. The buyer backed out of the other deal and they went with us.


Asked on 7/21/15, 3:45 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Thomas Moens Moens Law Offices, Chartered

Perhaps, but more information would be needed. Since you say the reason for the steering was unknown to you, it may simply be that the real estate agent for the seller was also the agent for other buyer. This would essentially double his or her commission. Ethically suspect, but not illegal discrimination. Keep in mind that not all discrimination is illegal. For example, when you decide to have tea instead of coffee, you have discriminated. It is only illegal in certain circumstances when it is based on membership in a protected class, such as race, national origin, religion, etc. You may want to discuss your case with an attorney in your area for specific advice.

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Answered on 7/21/15, 5:47 am


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