A tester is defined as:

A tester is an individual posing as a prospective buyer with the intent of gathering information about the sales process, property conditions, or the behavior of real estate agents. The primary purpose of a tester is often to assess discrimination or compliance with fair housing laws, which makes this definition distinct and important in the context of housing and real estate practices. By masquerading as a buyer, the tester can observe how different property agents respond, providing insights into potential biases or violations of equitable treatment standards.

This role is crucial for understanding how housing markets operate and ensuring that all potential buyers receive equal access and treatment regardless of their background. The nature of this role highlights the importance of integrity within real estate transactions and reinforces the need for adherence to legal and ethical standards in the industry.