Understanding Your Rights: A Consumer Guide to Fair Housing

When it comes to buying, selling, or renting a home, everyone should have equal opportunities, free from discrimination. Unfortunately, not everyone is treated fairly. That’s why understanding fair housing laws is crucial for consumers. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) offers a Consumer Guide to Fair Housing that educates individuals on their rights and helps ensure they are treated equally in the housing market.

In honor of Fair Housing Month, we are taking a closer look at the key points from the guide and why they matter to you.

What Is Fair Housing?

At its core, fair housing is about ensuring that no one faces discrimination based on specific personal characteristics when dealing with real estate. The Fair Housing Act, signed into law in 1968, protects people from discrimination in housing-related transactions. These protections apply to renters, homebuyers, and those seeking mortgage loans.

The Seven Protected Classes

One of the most important aspects of the Fair Housing Act is the recognition of protected classes. Discrimination based on the following is illegal:

1. Race
2. Color
3. National Origin
4. Religion
5. Sex
6. Familial Status (families with children under 18)
7. Disability

In Michigan, the list of protected classes is a bit more expansive. In addition to the classes listed above, Michigan law states that the following are considered protected classes:

1. Age
2. Sexual Orientation 
3. Gender Identity or Expression
4. Height
5. Weight
6. Marital Status

Learn more about Michigan Fair Housing laws.

Washtenaw County features an even more extensive list of protected classes. In addition to the 12 classes listed above, the following are considered protected classes in Washtenaw County:

1. Ability
2. Ancestry
3. Creed
4. Political Belief
5. Source of Income
6. Veteran Status

Learn more about Washtenaw County Fair Housing Laws

If you belong to any of these groups, you cannot be denied housing or mistreated because of them.

Rights and Responsibilities of Housing Providers

Housing providers—including landlords, sellers, and Realtors®—are responsible for complying with the Fair Housing Act. Based on the seven protected classes listed above, they cannot discriminate against potential tenants or buyers. Additionally, they must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, such as allowing service animals or modifying facilities to ensure accessibility.

Realtors® are held to high ethical standards. The NAR code of ethics requires agents to adhere to the principles of fairness, ensuring that every client is treated respectfully and equally.

What to Do if You Face Discrimination

Unfortunately, discrimination still occurs in housing, but the Fair Housing Act gives you the power to take action. If you feel that you were treated unfairly, the guide provides a roadmap for what to do next:

• Document the Discrimination: Keep a record of your interactions, including dates, times, and conversations.
• File a Complaint: You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), or with the local fair housing agency linked below. HUD will investigate the matter and may take action.
  Fair Housing Center of Southeast & Mid Michigan
• Know Your Rights: Educating yourself about the protections afforded by the Fair Housing Act is essential for recognizing when your rights have been violated.

Why It Matters

Understanding your fair housing rights not only helps protect you but also empowers you to advocate for equality in your community. Discrimination in housing is not just unfair—it’s illegal. When everyone has access to housing free from prejudice, we create more diverse and thriving neighborhoods for everyone.

The Consumer Guide to Fair Housing is a vital resource for all homebuyers, renters, and anyone involved in the housing market. Armed with this knowledge, consumers can confidently navigate the real estate landscape, ensuring that they are treated with fairness and respect. As always, if you encounter discrimination, you have the right to stand up for yourself and seek justice.

Fair housing isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a moral one. Ensure you know your rights and are empowered to act in the face of unfair treatment.