In Honor of Pride Month, Here are 4 Resources for LGBTQ+ Homebuyers

The housing industry has made conscious efforts to improve access to homeownership for LGBTQ+ Americans in recent years. In fact, earlier this month, Marcia Fudge, commissioner for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development even delivered a Pride Month address.

“At HUD, we are committed to addressing equity in all forms,” she said. “This Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to forming a more perfect union. We stand with the LGBTQ community against housing discrimination. We ensure that housing is inclusive, welcoming, and safe for all. Let’s all be proud champions and allies of the LGBTQ community this month and always.”

There is still work to be done, though. Despite these well-intentioned sentiments, a mere 49% of same-sex couples own a home (well below the national homeownership rate of 64%).

If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community and need help achieving your dream of homeownership, reach out to an Embrace Home Loans office in your area today or use these resources: 

• Fair Housing Laws: The Fair Housing Act protects LGBTQ+ Americans and other minority groups from discrimination in the housing process or by housing professionals, such as real estate agents or mortgage lenders. Learn all about these protections or report a violation of Fair Housing laws through HUD.
• The LGBTQ Real Estate Alliance: The LGBTQ Real Estate Alliance is a nonprofit organization designed to “empower the LGBTQ+ community on their path towards and enjoyment of homeownership.” You can use the alliance to find LGBTQ-friendly real estate pros or attend an alliance event in your area.
• National LGBTQ+ Housing Initiative: This organization is specifically for older members of the LGBTQ+ community. It fights housing discrimination, works will builders to create LGBTQ-friendly housing, and addresses other issues facing community elders.
• National Association of Gay & Lesbian Real Estate Professionals: If you’re looking for a real estate agent whose also a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community NAGLREP is your resource. You can also use the group to find mortgage professionals, title agents, home inspectors, appraisers, real estate attorneys, and more.

You’re not alone in your journey to buy a home. For more resources or to get personalized help, reach out to an Embrace Home Loans office in your area today.