Certified Residential Appraiser Practice Exam

Which of the following statuses is NOT protected under the Fair Housing Act?

1. Race

2. Religion

3. Credit rating

4. National origin

The correct answer is: Credit rating

The Fair Housing Act is a significant piece of legislation aimed at preventing discrimination in housing. It specifically protects individuals from discrimination based on certain characteristics, including race, religion, national origin, color, sex, familial status, and disability. The correct answer identifies credit rating as a status that is not protected under this act. While credit rating can affect a person's ability to secure housing, it is not categorized as a protected class under the Fair Housing Act. This distinction is crucial for understanding fair housing practices and the legal protections afforded to individuals. In contrast, race, religion, and national origin are all explicitly mentioned in the Fair Housing Act as protected characteristics. This means that individuals cannot be discriminated against in their housing choices based on these attributes. Understanding this framework is essential for real estate professionals and appraisers to ensure compliance with fair housing laws and promote equitable treatment in housing.