The best way to avoid costly court battles and toxic relationships is to understand what laws are out there to protect you.  Whether you are a renter, buyer, or consumer, there are a number of federal and state laws in place to maintain fair and transparent transactions.

Fair Housing prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing based on race, color, sex, religion, disability, national origin, and familial status.  Know your rights and what you can do to protect yourself.

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Learn about the lending laws in place to protect renters, homebuyers, and homeowners.  The Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and Equal Credit Opportunity Act offer protection from surreptitious and discriminatory practices.

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Tenants have many legal protections to ensure that their rights are protected.  Before signing a lease, read the terms carefully and know what each party’s responsibilities are.  If you may be facing eviction, find out how the process works.  Before resorting to the courts, learn more about what your rights and obligations are as a tenant.

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Consumer protection laws ensure fair transactions between consumers and businesses.  If you are in debt, know what you can and cannot do under the Fair Debt Collection Act.  Prevent damage to your credit score, financial health, and peace of mind.  Learn about your rights, identity theft, and potential scams.

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Before jumping headfirst into a deal that seems too good to be true, know what kinds of scams are out there. Become familiar with the laws that protect you from falling prey to dot cons, charity fraud, pyramid schemes, and other frauds.

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