Final answer:
Real estate professionals who are victims of assaults were often chosen based on appearance. Studies by HUD have shown systemic discrimination in the real estate market, with minorities shown fewer homes and subjected to stricter rental criteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evidence suggests that most real estate professionals who are victims of assaults were originally chosen because of their appearance. This is not necessarily connected to the skills or techniques that professionals might use in their job, such as negotiation skills or marketing techniques, or to their background checks. The unfortunate reality is that physical looks can play a role in how individuals, including real estate professionals, are targeted in various situations.
In broader terms of discrimination in real estate, studies by the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) department have shown systemic biases against certain racial groups in both the sale and rental markets. For example, the studies revealed realtors showed Black and Asian homebuyers significantly fewer homes and properties than White homebuyers. Furthermore, Hispanic renters faced stiffer credit checks and received information about fewer available units compared to their White counterparts.