Life here in West Texas is laid back and friendly, but we, real estate professionals, must be careful not to violate Fair Housing laws while having friendly conversations. Part of our job is to learn what our clients’ needs are, but we must be mindful of the questions we ask while learning about them. Instead of asking clients why they need four bedrooms versus three, ask broader questions and allow them to tell you what they want you to know.

As you may know, April is Fair Housing Month. But you may be asking yourself, why is this important to REALTORS® here in Lubbock, Texas? Over the years, Fair Housing laws have changed and evolved and have altered the way we do business. They have changed how we describe properties, which means changes in advertising, and the Clear Cooperation Policy was established with a strong Fair Housing component, which is why our MLS rules and regulations are closely monitored.

Fair Housing goes beyond the law and extends to acting ethically. Everyone, regardless of their nation of origin, religion, sexual orientation or marital status, deserves a piece of the American dream. It’s about serving our community and striving to provide the same services to everyone, regardless of their situation, status, race, gender, orientation, etc. REALTORS® are bound to a common Code of Ethics, which includes how we treat every person in the public.

If you are unsure about what you can and cannot say regarding Fair Housing laws, you must do your due diligence and learn more about the Fair Housing Act. You can visit nar.realtor/fair- housing to learn more. Ignorance will not protect you if you violate Fair Housing laws, so if you have concerns, make sure you talk to your broker.

The following are the tenets of Fair Housing:

Housing discrimination is prohibited. All persons have the right to equal housing opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin or disability.

Landlords, real estate agents, mortgage lenders and other housing providers cannot discriminate against applicants based on protected characteristics.

Providers must make reasonable accommodations to policies and practices to allow disabled

persons equal housing opportunity.

Newly constructed multifamily housing must include accessible features for disabled residents.

Lenders cannot deny loans, set different terms or limit access to credit based on protected

characteristics.

The Fair Housing Act was signed into law in 1968, opening the dream of homeownership to every American after many years of discriminatory legislature and practices. The Lubbock Association of REALTORS® is proud to promote Fair Housing here in the Lubbock area and

celebrate the changes that Fair Housing has made for every citizen.