Before you write your next rental ad, make sure that you are familiar with fair-housing laws. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale and rental of housing based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, familial status, or disability. It also makes it illegal to advertise or make any statement that indicates a limitation or preference based on those attributes.
So what can you say in your advertising to comply with the law? A recent property management webinar, “Fair Housing Issues,” covers some acceptable and unacceptable terms.
Acceptable terms include:
- No drug users
- Public transportation nearby
- Kids welcome
- Quiet neighborhood
- References required
- No smokers
- Gated community
- Pets limited to assistance animals
- Se habla espanol
Unacceptable terms include:
- Near church
- No kids
- No handicap parking
- Senior discount
- Single person
- Able-bodied
- Nationality
Download a PowerPoint presentation and audio of the fair-housing issues webinar or other property management-related webinars on TexasRealtors.com.
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