Sex and Real Estate: Sexual Harassment, Sexual Discrimination, and Fair Housing
Thanks in part to movements such as #MeToo and Time’s Up, sexual harassment and discrimination have moved to the forefront of the national conversation. Responsible agents not only reject sexually predatory behavior but also actively dismantle toxic workplace environments to ensure a safe place for all. It’s up to agents to reject behaviors or ideologies that could damage neighbors, clients, and each other.
In this course, we’ll take a closer look at how sexual harassment is defined and the impact such behavior can have on your clients, your brokerage, and your reputation. Additionally, we’ll discuss actions you can take to ensure that your office is inclusive and welcoming to all, and that your clients’ best interests are always protected. This includes tips for putting together a comprehensive office policy that thoroughly addresses sexual harassment and discrimination.
Course highlights:
- How sexual harassment is defined by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)
- Protections offered through Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act
- Ramifications of sexual harassment within a brokerage, including how it affects clients and customers
- Federal Sexual Harassment Housing Initiative
- Federal and state laws protecting sexual orientation and gender identity in housing
- Landmark legal cases relating to sexual harassment and gender discrimination
- Tips for putting together a comprehensive office policy that addresses sexual harassment and the complaint process
- Activities and scenarios to reinforce key concepts
State Requirements For Illinois
Illinois State Requirement Details for Real Estate Broker Continuing Education
The Illinois Division of Real Estate has implemented new education requirements to reflect recent changes to the Illinois Real Estate License Act of 2000. The 2026 Broker Renewal deadline is April 30, 2026. The 4-hour Core course, if completed prior to June 30, 2025, will satisfy the Core requirement for this renewal. However, the Division strongly recommends completion of the 6-hour Core course, which includes at least 2 hours of fair housing training, to satisfy the Core requirement for this renewal.
Renewal Date: April 30th of even-numbered years
Hours Required by the State: 12 hours
- 6-hour core course (or 4-hour core course if completed prior to June 30, 2025)
- 6 hours of elective courses (or 8 hours of elective courses if the 4-hour core course was completed prior to June 30, 2025) including
- 1-hour course in Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
Note: Brokers receiving their initial broker license are required to complete the 45-hour post-license education during their first license term and are not required to complete any other CE during that license term.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Division of Real Estate
Street Address: 320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, Illinois 62786
Mailing Address: 320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, Illinois 62786
Telephone: (800) 560-6420
Email: fpr.realestate@illinois.gov