Fair Housing
The Fair Housing Act
Do you understand your rights as a homebuyer? At Mainstreet, we’re dedicated to supporting homebuyers, and we’re here to help you navigate your rights.
Learn the resources you can turn to if you feel you’ve experienced discrimination during the homebuying process.
What is Fair Housing?
Fair housing rights were first defined legally through the Fair Housing Act in 1968 as a result of the Civil Rights Movement. The Act aimed to end discrimination against people seeking housing.
Who Does the Fair Housing Act Protect?
Today, the Fair Housing Act protects anyone from being discriminated against in the sale, lease or rental of a home based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Sex
- Disability
- Familial status
- National origin
Additionally, the Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the homebuying process based on:
- Pregnancy
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Unfavorable military discharge
When applying for a home, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act protects you from being wrongly discriminated against during the credit application process.
Education
Mainstreet offers regular courses to educate our REALTORS® on fair housing issues. And we work closely with HOPE Fair Housing, which advocates for fair housing opportunities for all.
Fair Housing Resources
If you believe you have been descriminated againt in the homebuying process, you have the right to pursue legal action. Your REALTOR® can help navigate these issues and connect you with the right resources.
You can also turn to the following local and national resources for guidance and support.
Info You Need to Know
