Douglas Elliman sued over alleged racist text to apartment seekers

A Black couple, Lisa Renee Olaso and Cyril Christopher, has filed a housing discrimination lawsuit against Douglas Elliman Realty, real estate agent Helen Tzelios, and several property owners. The lawsuit alleges violations of the Federal Fair Housing Act as well as New York State and New York City human rights laws.

The incident occurred in June while the couple was attempting to view a rental apartment in Flushing, Queens. According to the plaintiffs, Olaso received a text message intended for the property owners that read, “Ugh, they’re Black.” When confronted, the agent allegedly attempted to justify the remark by citing issues with previous Black tenants in the neighborhood.

Douglas Elliman stated that the company has a “zero-tolerance policy for discrimination” and confirmed that Tzelios was terminated within an hour of being served. The couple, who recently relocated from Delaware, is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, stating the legal action is focused on accountability.