Are landlords allowed to advertise properties only to certain groups in violation of Fair Housing Law?

No, landlords are not allowed to advertise properties only to certain groups in violation of the Fair Housing Law. This law applies to Virginia just as it does in other states across the country. In Virginia, the Virginia Fair Housing Law prohibits discrimination in housing based on an individual’s race, color, religion, national origin, gender, familial status, or disability. This means that landlords cannot advertise, sell, or rent properties only to a certain group of people based on any of those factors. The Virginia Fair Housing Law also prohibits what is known as “steering,” which is when a landlord attempts to direct or guide potential tenants towards or away from certain neighborhoods or buildings based on any of the protected classes. For example, if a landlord only advertises certain apartments to African American individuals, then this may be considered discrimination. Finally, it is important to note that although this law applies to landlords specifically, it also applies to real estate brokers, appraisers, and any other person who engages in residential real estate-related activities. These people are also prohibited from engaging in any sort of discrimination or steering. If any of the above activities occur, then the landlord and the real estate professional could be subject to civil penalties or even criminal prosecution.

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