No, NAR Didn’t Just Require the “Fair Housing Logo” on All Marketing Materials

There’s been some confusion lately about a supposed new NAR rule that requires REALTORS® to include the "Fair Housing" or Equal Housing Opportunity logo on all marketing materials. Let’s clear that up.

There is no new NAR mandate requiring REALTORS® to put the “Fair Housing logo” on every marketing piece. However, the terminology can be confusing — the terms Fair Housing logo and Equal Housing Opportunity (EHO) logo are often used to mean the same thing: the standard graphic or statement used to show compliance with fair housing law.

Here’s what you actually need to know — and what’s simply best practice.

What’s Really Changing
  • The new NAR rule, effective January 1, 2025, is about education, not logos.
  • All REALTORS® must complete 2 hours of Fair Housing training every 3 years, separate from the Code of Ethics requirement.
  • That’s the only new national requirement. There is no rule requiring you to add a logo to every ad, post, or business card.
What Federal Law Actually Says
  • Under the Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. § 3604) and Housing & Urban Development regulations, advertisements should contain an Equal Housing Opportunity logo, statement, or slogan — but “should” is not “must.”
  • HUD encourages its use as a visible sign of compliance, not a universal requirement for every marketing piece.
What New Mexico Real Estate Commission (NMREC) Requires for all Real Estate Advertising:
  • Be truthful and not misleading
  • Include the brokerage trade name and office phone number
  • Comply with all local, state, and federal laws
  • There’s no NMREC rule mandating the Fair Housing logo on all materials — though using it is highly recommended.
  • NMREC Advertising Rules: NMREC Rule 16.61.32 NMAC
“Fair Housing” vs. “Equal Housing Opportunity” — What’s the Difference?

They’re the same thing in practice.

  • The “Fair Housing” logo and the “Equal Housing Opportunity (EHO)” logo both use the house with an equals sign graphic.
  • Both represent compliance with the Fair Housing Act and a commitment to equal access in housing.
  • You might hear both terms used interchangeably — and that’s okay.

REALTORS® use the Equal Housing Opportunity logo:

 

 

 

 

Download official versions from NAR: Equal Housing Opportunity Logo Downloads

Mortgage Lenders use a nearly identical version that says Equal Housing Lender:

Who This Applies To

The Fair Housing Act applies to anyone advertising or marketing the sale, rental, or financing of a residential dwelling — including:

  • REALTORS® and property managers
  • Builders and landlords
  • Mortgage lenders and advertisers

So if your marketing promotes a home for sale or rent, or any financing tied to a dwelling, you’re covered under the Act.

GAAR’s Best Practice Recommendations

To protect yourself and show your commitment to fair housing:

  • Always include your brokerage name and office phone number (NMREC rule)
  • Include the Equal Housing Opportunity logo or the words “Equal Housing Opportunity” on all residential listings, ads, or property posts
  • Use the phrase (not the graphic) when space is limited
  • Keep your messaging, imagery, and targeting inclusive
The Takeaway
  • There’s no new NAR rule about logos — just a renewed focus on fair housing education and compliance.
  • The Fair Housing and Equal Housing Opportunity logos mean the same thing, and using one is a simple, visible way to show your professionalism and commitment to fairness in every transaction.