In the context of housing, what does the term "steering" refer to?

The term "steering" in the context of housing refers to the practice of encouraging clients to buy in specific neighborhoods based on their demographic characteristics, such as race, religion, or ethnic background. This practice is considered unethical and illegal under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing-related activities.

The intent behind steering is often to manipulate where individuals or groups live based on preconceived notions about what neighborhoods are suitable for them. This can perpetuate segregation and limit the housing choices available to clients based solely on their demographic profiles. In contrast, the other options involve providing assistance or information without the discriminatory implications that steering encompasses, making A the accurate definition of the term in question.