The company says neither their investigation nor that of HUD’s found any wrongdoing
After the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) penalized a group of California lenders for allegedly discriminating against a Hispanic man in prequalifying from purchasing a home, one of the companies involved has released a statement on the issue.
American Financial Network (AFN) of Brea released the statement Tuesday:
“Neither AFN's investigation nor HUD's investigation uncovered any wrongdoing on the part of our branch, our loan officer or the builder. While all the allegations were unsubstantiated, AFN and the complainant settled for an amount equal to a small earnest money deposit. The complainant was interested in a quick resolution, and AFN believes its decision to settle was in the best interests of all parties. AFN is an Equal Opportunity Lender and is committed to treating all consumers and prospective consumers consistently, equally, and in full compliance with all fair lending laws.”
AFN paid the complainant $5,000 in reparation.
The companies involved were American Financial Network; Benchmark Communities of Fresno; Brigantino Enterprise of Hollister; and an employee of Benchmark Communities.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in rental, sales or home lending transactions based on a person’s national origin, race, color, religion, sex, familial status or disability. HUD and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies received last year more than 8,000 complaints alleging discrimination.
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HUD slaps California lenders with penalties for discrimination
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American Financial Network (AFN) of Brea released the statement Tuesday:
“Neither AFN's investigation nor HUD's investigation uncovered any wrongdoing on the part of our branch, our loan officer or the builder. While all the allegations were unsubstantiated, AFN and the complainant settled for an amount equal to a small earnest money deposit. The complainant was interested in a quick resolution, and AFN believes its decision to settle was in the best interests of all parties. AFN is an Equal Opportunity Lender and is committed to treating all consumers and prospective consumers consistently, equally, and in full compliance with all fair lending laws.”
AFN paid the complainant $5,000 in reparation.
The companies involved were American Financial Network; Benchmark Communities of Fresno; Brigantino Enterprise of Hollister; and an employee of Benchmark Communities.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in rental, sales or home lending transactions based on a person’s national origin, race, color, religion, sex, familial status or disability. HUD and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies received last year more than 8,000 complaints alleging discrimination.
Related stories:
HUD slaps California lenders with penalties for discrimination
HUD kicks off Fair Housing Month
