Address
The Galleria 9626 N. Kings Hwy
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Introduction: Why This Is Important
Imagine losing out on your dream home—not because of your credit score or finances—but because of your race, religion, or family status. Sounds unthinkable, right? That was a harsh reality for many Americans before 1968.
Enter the Fair Housing Act of 1968—a pivotal piece of civil rights legislation that reshaped how real estate is practiced in the United States. As real estate agents, understanding the origins and purpose of this act isn’t just good practice—it’s essential. And not just for compliance, but for integrity, professionalism, and community trust.
A Brief History: The Civil Rights Movement & the Birth of the Fair Housing Act
The 1960s were a turbulent time in America’s history. The Civil Rights Movement had brought national attention to systemic discrimination. But housing discrimination—quiet, coded, and often hidden behind smiling faces—was rampant.
Despite previous civil rights wins, people of color, particularly African Americans, were still denied housing opportunities due to:
- Redlining by banks and insurance companies
- Racial covenants in property deeds
- Refusals by landlords and sellers
The tragic assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968, pushed the nation to act. Just one week later, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Fair Housing Act into law on April 11, 1968—a milestone in the fight for equality.
What the Fair Housing Act Covers: Know the Protected Classes
The Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to discriminate in housing-related transactions based on the following protected characteristics:
- Race
- Color
- National origin
- Religion
- Sex (added in 1974)
- Familial status (families with children, added in 1988)
- Disability (also added in 1988)
This means agents, landlords, property managers, and sellers cannot:
- Refuse to sell or rent
- Falsely claim a property is unavailable
- Set different terms or conditions
- Advertise discriminatory preferences
Why This Matters for Real Estate Agents Today
You may think, “I already know this stuff. Why revisit it?” Because staying sharp on Fair Housing isn’t just about checking a box—it shapes how you do business.
Here’s how the Act impacts you daily:
- Listing Descriptions: Watch your language—phrases like “great for singles” or “Christian neighborhood” can be considered discriminatory.
- Tenant Selection: Decisions must be based on financial and rental history—not family size, nationality, or ability.
- Service Animals: You can’t charge pet fees or deny housing for someone with a verified need.
- Marketing & Targeting: Digital ads must not exclude certain groups (think: algorithmic redlining).
And yes, violations can lead to hefty fines, lawsuits, and even license revocation. Ouch.
Real-World Example: What NOT to Do
Let’s say a buyer expresses concern about “too many kids in the neighborhood.” You might be tempted to steer them elsewhere. That’s called steering—and it’s a violation.
Instead, redirect the conversation: “Let’s focus on the features of the home you’re looking for, like square footage or yard space.” Keep the emphasis on property—not people.
Your Role as an Agent: More Than a Rule-Follower
As a licensed professional, you’re not just selling homes—you’re shaping communities. Fair housing means:
- Promoting inclusivity
- Upholding professional ethics
- Earning trust across all demographics
Want to take it a step further? Take continuing education courses on Fair Housing. Pinnacle Real Estate Academy offers a fantastic 2-hour elective that dives deeper into practical application and recent case studies.
Conclusion: Fair Housing Isn’t Just a Law—It’s a Legacy
The Fair Housing Act of 1968 isn’t just a line in your real estate handbook. It’s a legacy born from struggle, loss, and the pursuit of equality. And as agents, we have the privilege—and responsibility—to honor that legacy every day.
So here’s the challenge: Are you doing everything you can to champion fair housing in your practice? If not, now’s the perfect time to start.
🔗 Ready to Learn More?
Visit PinnacleRealEstateAcademyOnline.com to explore our 2024-2026 Fair Housing CE Course. Let’s stay sharp, stay compliant, and most importantly—stay fair.
