What constitutes a prohibited act under the Fair Housing Act?

Refusing to sell or rent after a valid offer due to protected characteristics is considered a prohibited act under the Fair Housing Act because this legislation is designed to prevent discrimination based on specific, protected categories. These protected characteristics include race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. When a property owner or leasing agent refuses to transact with an individual based on these characteristics, it not only undermines equal housing opportunities but also directly violates the principles outlined in the Fair Housing Act.

This prohibition is essential in ensuring that all individuals have an equal chance to secure housing without facing discrimination that could stem from personal attributes unrelated to their ability to pay rent or maintain a property. By allowing such discrimination, it perpetuates systemic inequalities and barriers within the housing market.

In contrast, offering discounts for early payment, requiring a cosigner based on income, and maintaining a waitlist for applicants are actions that do not inherently infringe upon the principles of equal housing opportunity, provided they are applied uniformly and are not based on discriminatory motives. Thus, option B stands out as a clear violation of fair housing laws.