Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Law
At Skyline Realty, we are committed to upholding fair housing laws and ensuring equal professional service to all individuals in their search for real property. The sale and purchase of a home are significant life events, and we believe everyone should have an equal opportunity to achieve their homeownership dreams.
Civil Rights Act of 1866
This act prohibits all racial discrimination in the sale or rental of property.
Fair Housing Act
The Fair Housing Act establishes a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States, making it illegal to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin in the sale, lease, or rental of housing.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Title III of the ADA prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in places of public accommodation and commercial facilities.
Equal Credit Opportunity Act
This act makes it unlawful to discriminate against any applicant based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or income derived from public assistance.
State and Local Laws
In addition to federal laws, state and local laws may offer broader protections against housing discrimination.
Responsibilities
For Home Sellers and Landlords
As a home seller or landlord, you are legally required not to discriminate based on protected characteristics. You cannot instruct a real estate professional to act in a discriminatory manner, establish discriminatory terms or conditions, or misrepresent the availability of housing.
For Home Seekers
You have the right to expect housing to be available without discrimination or limitations based on protected characteristics. This includes:
- Equal professional service
- Access to a broad range of housing choices
- No discrimination in financing, appraising, or insuring of housing
- Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities
- Protection against harassment or intimidation when exercising fair housing rights
For Real Estate Professionals
Real estate agents are prohibited from engaging in discrimination. They must uphold fair housing laws and cannot fulfill discriminatory requests from home sellers or landlords.
The REALTOR® Fair Housing Program
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has developed a Fair Housing Program to ensure equal professional services for all. The term REALTOR® refers to licensed real estate professionals who are members of NAR and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.
NAR Code of Ethics – Article 10
REALTORS® pledge not to deny services or engage in discriminatory practices based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This commitment extends beyond professional transactions to include speech and conduct.
If You Suspect Discrimination
If you believe you have experienced housing discrimination:
- Contact Your Local Board of REALTORS® – Local Boards can handle complaints alleging violations of the NAR Code of Ethics.
- File a Complaint with HUD – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) investigates housing discrimination complaints. Visit HUD.gov to file a complaint.
At Skyline Realty, we stand for fair housing for all. If you have any questions about your rights or need assistance, please reach out to our team. We are here to support you in finding the perfect home with fairness and integrity.
Contact Us
Skyline Realty
196 Boston Ave #2100, Medford, MA 02155
Phone: 617-547-8700