How can landlords and sellers offer incentives to tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

In California, landlords and sellers can offer incentives to tenants while still complying with the Fair Housing Laws. The incentives that landlords and sellers can offer are based on the type of housing, the tenant’s prior rental history and credit score, the tenant’s income, the rental agreement, and the tenant’s location. For example, landlords and sellers can provide discounted rent for tenants who have excellent credit scores, pay rent on time, and fulfill their rental obligations. This is because these tenants are generally more reliable and less of a risk. Landlords and sellers can also offer tenants with lower incomes reduced rent. This helps tenants who cannot afford more expensive housing. With regard to location, landlords and sellers may provide incentives for tenants who choose to move into certain areas. This can include a lower security deposit or waived application fees. It also helps landlords by promoting their business and getting tenants to move into rental properties that might otherwise go unleased. Finally, landlords and sellers may offer incentives such as free transportation, free or discounted utilities, or other amenities in order to attract tenants. These incentives must be unlawful and cannot be used as a way to discriminate against tenants or potential tenants on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. By offering tenants incentives that are lawful and in accordance with Fair Housing Law, landlords and sellers can attract tenants while also ensuring compliance with state and federal law.

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How can landlords and sellers offer incentives to tenants in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

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