According to the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, which of the following descriptions may be used in advertising properties in a townhome…

The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) prohibits advertising that indicates a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on protected classes. However, the law provides a specific exemption for "housing for older persons." If a development meets the strict legal criteria to qualify (e.g., housing for persons 62 or older, or housing where at least 80% of units are occupied by one person 55 or older), it is legally permitted to advertise as "Senior housing." This is a recognized exception to prohibitions against age and familial status discrimination. The other options are unlawfully discriminatory.

A. Advertising proximity to specific religious institutions can be construed as expressing a preference based on creed, which is prohibited.

B. Using the term "Ethnic neighborhood" is a clear violation, as it indicates a preference or limitation based on national origin, race, or ancestry.

C. Advertising for "Singles only" is explicitly discriminatory based on marital status and familial status, both of which are protected classes under the NJLAD.

1. New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq.):

N.J.S.A. 10:5-12(g)(3): This section makes it unlawful to print or publish any advertisement related to the sale or rental of real property that "expresses, directly or indirectly, any limitation, specification or discrimination as to race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, familial status, disability, nationality, sex or source of lawful income". This statute invalidates options A, B, and C.

N.J.S.A. 10:5-2.1: This section explicitly states, "the provisions of this act relating to familial status shall not apply to housing for older persons." This provides the legal basis for option D. The statute further defines "housing for older persons" in alignment with federal standards.

2. New Jersey Division on Civil Rights, "Fair Housing in New Jersey" Publication:

Section on Prohibited Advertising: This official guide explains that "Advertisements should describe the property, not the potential tenant or buyer." It lists examples of prohibited phrases, including those that refer to race, religion, or familial status (e.g., "no children," "singles only"). It also clarifies the legal exception for qualified senior housing. (See publications available on the official NJ Office of the Attorney General website under the Division on Civil Rights).

3. Rutgers School of Law, Courseware on New Jersey Property Law:

Course materials covering New Jersey's Fair Housing regulations and the Law Against Discrimination consistently highlight the specific, statutory exemptions carved out for qualified senior housing communities, contrasting them with broadly prohibited discriminatory language in advertising related to religion, national origin, and familial status. These materials emphasize that while general discrimination is illegal, the "housing for older persons" exception is a critical and legally distinct category.