Have you heard of the Fair Housing Laws? As a property manager, you should be aware of them and how they affect your business. Here’s a little look at some of the points that you should be aware of when searching for a potential buyer.

Equal Treatment

The first thing to know is that the fair housing laws require that you treat each potential client equally. You are not allowed to show any bias, or turn anyone away based on their race, color, religion, sex, handicap, family status, or nationality. When you start out as a property manager, it is important to put aside any discrimination in order to achieve this. Keep an open mind about any potential buyers in order to treat everyone equally.

Do not:

-misrepresent a property to a potential buyer because you do not believe they would be a good fit for the unit.
-discriminate and invoke eviction policies because you do not agree with a family’s values.
-advertise your property to only a certain type of clients.
-limit the use of your facilities to certain guests or residents.
-apply any extra rental restrictions or criteria to certain clients.
-steer a potential buyer away from certain units based on your bias.
-ask about any disabilities.

 

Disabilities

As a landlord or property manager, you are not allowed to ask to see any medical records. If a potential renter states that they need a certain type of unit, try to work with them. But if they are in a wheelchair and ask to see a third floor unit and a first floor unit, you are obligated to show them both. You are required to make the necessary adjustments for anyone who is disabled to help them comfortably maneuver around and to the unit, and you cannot charge them for this service. This is part of the fair housing laws and if you do not comply, they can bring a lawsuit.

If you have more questions about the Fair Housing Laws, Occupancy Solutions can help you out. We have been working with property managers for years to help build up their knowledge and improve business skills. Contact us today to get started.