The Fair Housing Act primarily prohibits discrimination in which housing-related areas?

• A. In loan underwriting only
• B. In advertising and sales only
• C. In the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on protected characteristics
• D. In property appraisal only

Answer: (C)

Discrimination in housing transactions is illegal under the Fair Housing Act. Protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, and disability cannot be used to deny or limit opportunities to buy, rent, or finance a home. The Act also prohibits discriminatory advertising and discriminatory terms or conditions in the sale or rental of housing. Because the question asks where the act prohibits discrimination, the most complete description is discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on protected characteristics. Other choices focus on a single aspect (loan underwriting, advertising, or appraisal) and don’t reflect the full scope of protections.