What is illegal for real estate licensees under the fair housing rule?

The fair housing rule prohibits discrimination based on specific protected classes established by the Fair Housing Act. Discrimination based on race and color falls squarely within these protected categories. This means that real estate licensees are legally required to treat all individuals equally, without regard to their race or skin color. This law aims to ensure an equitable housing market and prevent systemic inequality.

While discrimination based on physical appearance, income level, and age may lead to unethical practices, they are not explicitly covered under the Fair Housing Act's protections. Thus, violations related to these characteristics do not carry the same legal weight or ramifications for real estate professionals as those concerning race and color, which are explicitly forbidden under federal law.