April marks the 41st anniversary of the 1968 Fair Housing Act, which strives to ensure equal housing opportunity for all. RealtorsÒ are dedicated to advancing fair housing laws and eliminating discrimination, and can give their buyer and seller clients a wealth of resources and information about their rights and responsibilities under the act.
Realtors® are community builders who understand the importance of giving all Americans the opportunity to fulfill their homeownership dreams. With all the stress and excitement of the home buying process, the last thing a buyer should have to worry about is if they’re being treated fairly. Although we celebrate Fair Housing Month in April, for Realtors®, every month is Fair Housing Month.
According to U.S. Census data, more than 75 percent of white households own their home, but only about 50 percent of African American and Hispanic households are homeowners. Minority buying power stands at over $1 trillion and minorities are projected to account for more than 50 percent of first-time buyers by 2010.
Realtors® know that diverse neighborhoods and schools strengthen communities, and minority population growth is vital to sustaining housing markets. National Association of Realtors® members have access to educational tools like the “At Home with Diversity” program. The course teaches Realtors® about being sensitive to and aggressive in meeting the homeownership needs of a multicultural society. More than 25,000 Realtors® have completed the program.
NAR also provides Realtors® with funding for programs that support its Housing Opportunity Program, helping those who need greater access to quality, affordable homeownership and rental opportunities. This May, NAR will co-sponsor the HOPE Awards, which honors individuals and organizations who are working to increase minority homeownership. Award winners receive $10,000 and the opportunity to share their programs and expertise during a minority housing symposium at the Realtors® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo, May 11-16 in Washington, D.C.
People have a right to live wherever they can afford to live. For many families, homeownership is a stepping stone to prosperity and represents the American way of life. Fair housing means opening those doors for everyone in this country whose goal it is to own a home.
Courtesy of the National Association of REALTORS.
