An out-of-state firm calling itself the Portell Law Group has been sending Massachusetts real estate brokers and agents demand letters and draft federal complaints alleging that the brokers and/or agents are violating the Fair Housing Act by operating websites that the visually impaired cannot fully access. The letters demand that the real estate professionals settle by making the websites fully accessible to the visually impaired and paying the firm an unspecified amount in attorneys’ fees and expenses. Any REALTORS® who have received such a demand letter are advised to promptly consult with their own counsel in order to determine how to respond. REALTORS® should also contact their errors and omissions insurance provider and website vendor. Those who have not received the letter should consider reviewing their websites’ accessibility to minimize the likelihood of future problems.
Update:
On August 16th, 2021, NAR, in consultation with the Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® and the Florida Association of REALTORS®, sent the following letter to the Portell Law Group pushing back on their claims. We will keep you apprised of any response NAR receives.