Fair Housing is for everyone, everywhere

Dear SPAAR Members,

April is Fair Housing Month. It is dedicated to honoring and upholding the principles of equity and eliminating discrimination from the housing market. At the heart of our profession lies the commitment to uphold the Realtor®️ Code of Ethics, which emphasizes the fundamental right of every individual to access housing free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, and other protected characteristics. This month serves as a reminder of the pivotal role Realtors®️ and other industry professionals play in ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all individuals seeking housing opportunities. These guiding principles apply to every interaction whether it's with a consumer, a client or a peer.

Currently, a lot of attention is focused on NAR’s settlement of commission lawsuits. The negotiated settlement will lead to some changes in the real estate industry. Your commitment to Fair Housing is one thing that will not change. The value of each Realtor® is based, in part, on delivering professional service to every client.

It's imperative that as Realtors®️, we continuously educate ourselves on fair housing laws and regulations to better serve our diverse communities. By fostering inclusive practices and promoting equal access to housing, we adhere to legal mandates as well as contribute to building vibrant and cohesive neighborhoods where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Let us recommit ourselves to the principles of fairness and equity as we strive to uphold the integrity of our profession and make meaningful contributions to fostering inclusive communities for all. You can take the Fair Housing Pledge here.

Together, we can create a future where housing opportunities are accessible to everyone, everywhere.

Sincerely,

Amy Peterson

2024 SPAAR President