What significant addition was made to the Fair Housing Act (FHA) in 1974?

In 1974, the Fair Housing Act was amended to prohibit discrimination in housing based on sex, making gender a protected class under the law. This significant addition addressed the widespread issue of housing discrimination against women, who often faced challenges in securing loans, leases, and housing rights due to their gender.

Prior to this amendment, the Fair Housing Act primarily addressed discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin. By including gender, the law further expanded the scope of protections, promoting equal opportunity in housing for all individuals, regardless of gender. This amendment was a crucial step in the ongoing effort to eliminate barriers to housing and ensure fair treatment in the real estate market.

Understanding this addition is essential for real estate professionals, as it ensures that they comply with fair housing regulations and promote equitable treatment for all clients.