This month, as we celebrate pride, we’re also celebrating freedom. The freedom for everyone to have equal opportunity. The freedom to pursue your dreams, including the American Dream of homeownership.
Yet today, the LGBTQIA homeownership rate remains far below the national average.
While the majority of LGBTQIA renters want to own a home (only 11% prefer to continue renting), discrimination, or the fear of discrimination, is holding many back from homeownership. In fact, 46% of LGBTQIA renters fear being discriminated against in the homebuying process.
While our country has come a long way in the fight for equality, there’s still work to be done. Until sexual orientation and gender identity become protected classes under federal law, discrimination in housing remains a valid concern for people who identify as LGBTQIA.
Currently, the Fair Housing Act, which is part of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, prevents discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. In February 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Equality Act, which would amend the Civil Rights Act to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. If the bill passes in the Senate, it will be a landmark victory for the LGBTQIA community.
We believe homeownership is for everyone. And we don’t need a law telling us to do the right thing. Our team is committed to treating all of our customers equally, with professionalism and expert guidance.
We’re proud to stand with the LGBTQIA community and are committed to helping close the homeownership gap. If you are an LGBTQIA individual looking to buy a home — or know someone who is — we’re here for you!
