A Michigan landlord owns a four-unit apartment building and lives in one of the units. He refuses to rent a vacant unit to a widower, stating he prefers married couples as tenants. The widower files a complaint under the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. The landlord argues he is exempt because he is an owner-occupant of a small building. Which of the following most accurately describes the legal outcome?
Correct Answer
B) The landlord is not exempt because the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act does not provide the same owner-occupant exemption as federal law
While the federal Fair Housing Act includes an exemption for owner-occupants of buildings with four or fewer units (the 'Mrs. Murphy' exemption), the Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (MCL 37.2503) does not contain the same broad exemption. Michigan's law applies more broadly to housing accommodations, and the marital status protection under the Elliott-Larsen Act covers rental situations like this one. The landlord's refusal to rent based on the widower's marital status (widowed/single) violates Michigan state law even if he might have an argument under federal law.
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Related Topics & Key Terms
Key Terms:
Related Concepts
Continuing education (CE) refers to the ongoing coursework that licensed real estate professionals must complete during each renewal cycle to maintain an active license. CE ensures agents stay current with changes in laws, regulations, and industry practices.
The National Do Not Call Registry is a federal program administered by the FTC that allows consumers to opt out of receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls, including calls from real estate agents soliciting business.
Brokers in Florida have strict responsibilities for managing escrow accounts, including monthly reconciliation and proper handling of trust funds.
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