Navigating the Housing Process as a Queer Home Buyer: What You Should Know
Written by Emmett Teter
If you're a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, chances are you’ve faced moments when a service provider made you feel less-than-valued or unseen. While professionals should serve clients impartially, it's common to hear of biases surfacing in unexpected ways, especially in sensitive areas like housing. For queer individuals, working with uninformed or biased real estate agents can create unique challenges and impact the experience of finding a home.
As a proud queer realtor and home buyer, I understand firsthand the complexities of navigating the housing process from both a client and an agent’s perspective. Here are a few key issues trans and nonbinary clients, in particular, may face, and why working with an informed agent can make all the difference.
Updating Your Name with Credit Bureaus
The home-buying journey typically starts with a pre-approval from a lender, which hinges largely on credit history. For most, this is a simple process, but for trans or nonbinary individuals who have legally changed their names, there are a few extra steps to consider.
While updating a name change with the DMV and Social Security is common knowledge, many don’t realize that credit bureaus also need to be updated separately to maintain a credit history tied to the new name. Without this step, individuals may face delays or even denial of pre-approval, as lenders may not be able to pull accurate credit information. The update process with credit bureaus can take around 30 days—meaning missing this step can cost valuable time in a competitive market.
Working with an agent who understands these extra steps can ensure trans and nonbinary clients are fully prepared for pre-approval, helping to smooth out the process before it even begins.
Respecting Identity with an Informed Team
Another potential challenge for queer home buyers is working with a team unfamiliar with their identity. Ideally, all team members—from the lender to the closing attorney—should respect and affirm the client’s identity, but implicit biases or lack of understanding can lead to uncomfortable situations. This is especially true for clients who use nonbinary pronouns or who may not have legally changed their name, where misgendering and insensitivity can occur.
A supportive realtor will not only advocate for your comfort and respect but can also identify and address these challenges with other team members. If necessary, they can assist in switching providers or taking appropriate action through HUD’s fair housing protections. Having an agent who understands these issues adds a layer of security and trust, allowing you to focus on finding a home without compromising your identity.
Choosing the Right Agent
Selecting an agent who understands your unique concerns can make all the difference in a positive, supportive experience. When interviewing potential agents, ask about their knowledge of LGBTQIA+ issues in real estate. Make a list of your needs and potential concerns, and don’t be afraid to choose someone who feels like a true advocate. Your realtor is your first line of defense when navigating the home buying process. If someone on your team isn’t respecting your identity or treating you fairly - your realtor should be in your corner prepared to correct the other party and should be able to advise on switching professionals if needed. Think of your realtor as your quarterback - able to take on anything that comes your way while continuing to push your transaction forward to help you end up in the home you desire. If your agent is unable to navigate the common issues LGBTQIA+ individuals face when going through the home buying process - they might not be your best choice for your unique home buying journey.
While many agents outside the community are respectful and competent, finding someone who knows the challenges queer clients may face can provide a sense of safety and trust. The right agent will support not just your housing goals but also your identity and lived experience.
