By Mary Burnett

Every April, REALTORS® recognize Fair Housing Month by commemorating the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and acknowledging both the history and continued effects of housing discrimination and segregation. As leaders in the community, REALTORS® have a unique responsibility to help create a more equitable and inclusive housing landscape. Fair Housing Month represents a time to reaffirm our dedication to broadening homeownership opportunities and supporting equal access to housing.

The importance of these protections is deeply rooted in our history. Less than a week after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act of 1968. The 1968 Act expanded on previous acts and prohibited discrimination concerning the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin, sex, (and as amended) handicap and family status. The law marked a pivotal step toward ensuring equal access to housing nationwide.

Today, REALTORS® serve on the front lines where housing policy meets everyday practice. Fair housing is not only federal law — it is also a core professional standard. Article 10 of the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics requires REALTORS® to provide equal professional service to all clients and prohibits discrimination in any real estate transactions. In this way, the Code reinforces the principles established by the Fair Housing Act and makes fair housing compliance a matter of both legal responsibility and professional integrity.

The Fair Housing Act outlines several prohibited practices in the sale and rental of housing, including:

  • To refuse to sell or rent, or to otherwise make unavailable, a dwelling because of a person’s membership in a protected class.
  • Discrimination in the terms, conditions, or privileges of a sale or rental of housing, or in the provision of services in connection with same.
  • Use of advertising that expresses a preference for or against certain persons because of their membership in a particular protected class.
  • Representations that a dwelling is not available for sale or rent, when in fact the dwelling is available.
  • Attempts to induce a person to sell or rent a dwelling by referring to the prospective entry of persons of a particular race, color, sex, religion, national origin, handicap, or familial status.

For REALTORS®, fair housing policy is not theoretical. It shapes daily interactions with clients, marketing strategies, and business operations. From property showings and listing descriptions to client communications and advertising platforms, real estate professionals must ensure their practices not only uphold the NAR Code of Ethics, but also the federal law. Ongoing education and awareness of evolving fair housing guidance are crucial in helping REALTORS® maintain compliance while reinforcing professionalism, consumer trust, and the integrity of the real estate industry.

In a diverse and rapidly growing region like Houston, this responsibility carries added importance. The Houston Association of REALTORS® supports members by providing education, advocacy, and professional resources designed to promote equal service and responsible business practices. Through its programs and partnerships, HAR helps equip REALTORS® with the tools needed to uphold fair housing standards, strengthen consumer trust, and ensure housing opportunities remain accessible across the communities they serve.

  • Know Your Obligations
    Fair housing compliance is both a legal requirement and an ethical duty under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.
  • Use Inclusive Marketing
    Avoid language that suggests preferences or limitations based on protected characteristics.
  • Provide Equal Service
    Offer consistent guidance, access, and professional service to all clients.
  • Stay Educated
    Keep current with fair housing training and evolving guidance from industry and regulatory organizations.
  • When in Doubt, Ask
    Consult your broker, association resources, or legal counsel when facing uncertain situations.