Our Commitment to Equal Opportunity and Fair Housing Law in Massachusetts
At Skyline Realty, we are deeply committed to upholding fair housing laws and ensuring equal professional service for every individual. We recognize that the sale, purchase, or rental of a home is a milestone event. We believe everyone deserves an equal opportunity to achieve their housing goals without the barrier of discrimination.
The Foundation of Fair Housing
Our practice is guided by several key pieces of federal legislation that protect your rights:
- Civil Rights Act of 1866: Prohibits all racial discrimination in the sale or rental of any property.
- The Fair Housing Act establishes a national policy making it illegal to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin in any housing-related transaction.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Title III prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in public accommodations and commercial facilities.
- Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA): Ensures that all consumers have an equal chance to obtain credit without discrimination based on protected characteristics or the receipt of public assistance.
Massachusetts State & Local Protections
In addition to federal laws, Massachusetts state law (M.G.L. c. 151B) provides some of the broadest protections in the country. This includes additional protected classes such as:
- Source of income (including Section 8 vouchers)
- Sexual orientation and gender identity
- Age and marital status
- Veteran and military status
Rights and Responsibilities
For Home Sellers and Landlords
As a property owner, you have a legal obligation to provide an environment free of discrimination. At Skyline Realty, our Property Management team ensures all listings and screenings adhere strictly to these laws. You may not:
- Establish discriminatory terms or conditions for a sale or lease.
- Instruct a real estate professional to act in a discriminatory manner.
- Misrepresent the availability of a dwelling to any protected class.
For Home Seekers
You have the right to expect housing to be available to you without limitations. This includes:
- Equal Professional Service: High-quality assistance regardless of your background.
- Full Disclosure: Access to all available housing choices within your criteria.
- Reasonable Accommodations: The right for persons with disabilities to request physical or policy changes necessary to use a dwelling.
- Protection from Retaliation: Security against harassment or intimidation when exercising your fair housing rights.
For Real Estate Professionals
At Skyline Realty, our Residential Brokerage agents are prohibited from engaging in any form of discrimination. We are bound by law and by our professional oath to reject any discriminatory requests from clients and to uphold the highest standards of equity.
The REALTOR® Commitment
The term REALTOR® signifies membership in the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and adherence to a strict Code of Ethics.
NAR Code of Ethics – Article 10
REALTORS® pledge not to deny equal professional services to any person based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This commitment is comprehensive, extending to all professional conduct and public speech.
If You Suspect Discrimination
If you believe your fair housing rights have been violated, we encourage you to take the following steps:
- Contact Your Local Board of REALTORS®: Local boards handle complaints regarding violations of the NAR Code of Ethics.
- File a Formal Complaint: You may contact state or federal agencies to investigate housing discrimination.
Official Regulatory Resources
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
- Complete 2026 NAR Code of Ethics
At Skyline Realty, we stand for integrity and fairness in every transaction. If you have questions regarding your rights or require assistance in your housing search, our team is here to help.
Skyline Realty 196 Boston Ave #2100, Medford, MA 02155 Phone: 617-547-8700