NAR's Commitment to Fair Housing and the American Dream

"It is the policy of the United States to provide, within constitutional limitations, for fair housing throughout the United States."

One of the most basic rights for all Americans is having an opportunity to pursue and achieve the American dream of homeownership.

The National Association of REALTORS® and its more than 1.3 members understand and appreciate the joy and pride of homeownership. That is why NAR works to help create an environment where everyone, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, handicap, or national origin, can understand and exercise their rights to choose where they want to live as they seek the American dream of homeownership.

NAR is firmly committed to America's policy of fair housing and believes that equal opportunity in housing is essential for the continued strength and success of America's housing market. By working with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and countless local and state fair housing and community organizations, NAR not only has helped to increase awareness of the importance of open and free housing across the nation but has also provided critical fair housing and diversity tools and resources to REALTORS®.

Today, NAR is proud to work hand in hand with the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, and the Asian Real Estate Association of America to increase and protect homeownership opportunities in our diverse nation. The REALTOR® commitment to increasing minority homeownership brings our fair housing commitment to life and helps fulfill the promise of fair housing.

The REALTOR® approach to fair housing is to use these skills and this commitment to work with families, one at a time, to achieve their dreams of homeownership. By expanding marketing efforts to reach all populations, valuing diversity, becoming experts on housing programs, and being active in our communities, REALTORS® are on the front lines in making the promise of the Fair Housing Act a reality.

NAR offers training kits, handbooks, and other resources that provide business guidelines and practical skills that promote equal housing opportunities.

A basic fair housing library for every REALTOR® should include the following:

• Fair Housing Handbook
• What Everybody Should Know About Equal Opportunity In Housing
• Fair Housing Pocket Guides for Sales and Rental
• Fair Housing DVD/Video