Signifying a recommitment to advancing equitable opportunities and expanding homeownership, this April the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS® celebrates the commemoration of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This marks the 56th anniversary of the Act, which prohibits discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability
“During April, we reflect upon housing history and celebrate the anniversary of the Fair Housing Act,” said Ryan McLaughlin, CEO, NVAR. “We recognize that as community leaders, Realtors® have an opportunity to continue to be part of an equitable and inclusive change now and in the future.”
Realtors® are not the only ones bound by law not to discriminate. Home sellers and landlords are also required to not discriminate in the sale, rental, and financing of property because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Further, homebuyers have the right to expect that housing will be available without discrimination or other limitations based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. This includes finding housing in their price range made available without discrimination and equal professional services. It also includes the opportunity to consider a broad range of housing choices; no discrimination on communities, locations, financing, appraising, or insuring of housing; and reasonable accommodations in rules, practices, and procedures for persons with disabilities.
“Fair Housing Month is a good reminder that Realtors® advance equitable opportunities, expand homeownership, and ensure that everyone has equal rights to homeownership,” said Thai Hung Nguyen, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Premier, and President of NVAR.
NVAR is participating in Fairfax County’s (Virginia) Annual Fair Housing Event on April 25 discussing issues including affirmatively furthering fair housing, best practices in Fair Housing planning, and Fair Housing outreach and resources.
Other federal civil rights laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, prohibit discrimination in housing and community development programs and activities. Virginia also has its own Fair Housing Act (§36-96.1 et. seq.) that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, or familial status.