Are you searching for a new place to live in? Learn your rights and understand the ways how to defend them in the correct manner. It was 50 years ago when the landmark decision was passed and it is very likely you have come across the logo “Equal Housing Opportunity” on the paperwork defined by the real estate agent or the landlord. The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that has been designed to protect buyers and renters from discrimination policies.
Here’s what you really need to understand and apply when searching for a new place to live.
THE ACT
The Fair Housing Act is also known as the Civil Rights Act of 1968. This was made into law by the then President Lyndon B Johnson following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. who had headed the cause for several years. As per the Act, there shall be no discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status (sex was added in 1974, and familial & disability status were added in 1988). At the time when this act came into existence, discrimination has been a huge problem, even qualified renters were outrightly rejected on the basis of race, creed, and other factors. Albeit less, discrimination in the housing market still exists to this day.
IDENTIFYING HOUSING DISCRIMINATION
While searching for a home, most people you come across including agents, landlords, companies, etc., are bound to the regulations and state laws based on the area where you live. Violations could occur at any stage including buying and renting, you just need to be cautious. Make sure your application processing, finances, credit checks are done rightly throughout. Consult an experienced, trusted, and reliable real estates agent like Eddie who can guide you through the entire process with ease and transparency.
These are some of the discriminatory acts that people have faced over time in different scenarios according to a report.
- When a real estate dealer tries to push away certain buyers away from a particular area.
- When a certain landlord tries to deviate a potential tenant from the premises by claiming that the place has been rented already while that is not at all true.
- A real estate company seeks a higher deposit or simply refuses to cooperate.
- When someone is evicted from premises on the basis of color and race.
- A lender treats a differently-abled in the wrong manner.
THE NEXT STEP
Instances of discrimination can be highly-disappointing. However, there are many resources at your disposal can you can use to file a grievance.
- A complaint can be filed with the department of housing and development.
- You can speak to an experienced attorney who could offer you good solutions.
- Find a real estate agent who is experienced and trusted, someone who can help you out in the right manner.
We know finding a home and a new place to live isn’t easy. Always approach agents who have been tested and trusted. Take bold steps ahead, you will always reach the right direction. Good luck!
