April 6, 2026
Claire Brenneman
Fair Housing is not just a legal requirement it is about making sure everyone in our community has an equal shot at finding a home. When REALTORS® follow Fair Housing principles, we help:
Stronger Neighborhoods
Inclusive communities are more resilient and vibrant for everyone.
Legal Protection
Following Fair Housing safeguards you and your clients from serious risk.
Built-in Trust
Consistent, fair treatment builds the reputation that sustains a career.
Who is protected under Fair Housing law?
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on:
Race, color, national origin
Religion
Sex, including gender identity
Familial status
Disability
Marital status & sexual orientation
State laws may go further. Montana and many other states have their own fair housing protections that extend beyond federal minimums. Check your state's fair housing agency to stay current on local requirements.
Common ways well-meaning agents slip up
Fair Housing violations are not always intentional. In fact, most are not. These are the patterns to watch for:
- Steering - guiding clients toward or away from certain neighborhoods based on race, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics, even subtly.
- Exclusionary listing language - phrases like "perfect for singles," "quiet adult community," or "no kids" can violate Fair Housing rules. Review every listing.
- Inconsistent treatment - showing different properties, providing different information, or applying different standards based on assumptions about a client's background.
- Redlining (modern forms) - declining to serve clients in certain areas or discouraging them from exploring neighborhoods based on demographic assumptions.
Three habits that keep you compliant
1
Use consistent processes for every client. The same questions, the same listings, the same follow-through, every time. Consistency is your best defense and your best practice.
2
Audit your listing language regularly. Before publishing, read your description through the lens of every protected class. When in doubt, focus on the home's features, not the ideal resident.
3
Keep learning. Laws and best practices evolve. NAR offers ongoing Fair Housing education and resources, including the At Home With Diversity® certification.
Helping your clients know their rights
Part of being a great REALTOR® is helping clients advocate for themselves. These are worth bookmarking and sharing:
NAR Consumer Guide to Fair Housing
Simple, client-friendly overview of rights and protections. Great to share digitally or print for open houses.
File a Fair Housing complaint
If a client believes their rights have been violated, they can submit a complaint directly through HUD at no cost.
NAR's Fair Housing Action Plan (ACT!)
NAR's ongoing initiative with tools, training, and policy resources for REALTORS® committed to equity.
Fair Housing is more than a legal requirement, it is how we make our communities better, fairer, and stronger. Following these principles protects everyone and makes your work as a REALTOR® more impactful.
Happy Fair Housing Month!