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The New York Times

Real Estate

Fair Housing, Equal Opportunity

Published: April 8, 2001

To the Editor:

Regarding ''A Couple's Love Story Disables Stereotypes'' [Habitats, March 11]:

Your article was good, as far as it went, but it should have noted that people with disabilities do not have to depend on the kindness of a real estate broker. The Fair Housing Amendments Act, which became effective on March 12, 1989, now prohibits housing discrimination against people with disabilities.

For example, it is illegal to refuse to sell or rent a dwelling unit to disabled people or to misrepresent the availability of a dwelling because of the applicant's race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

Individuals who have experienced such discrimination should make their concerns known to the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Office at (212) 264-1290.

CAROLYN SCHWEBEL
Co-Chairwoman
The Equalizers
Leonardo, N.J.