UPSTAR is committed to advocating for REALTORS® and homeowners at the local, regional, and state levels.
Promoting healthy, growing communities
Homeownership is a vital piece of our democratic values, fostering everything from community engagement to economic stability and personal well-being. We believe that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to enjoy the benefits of homeownership and live in a safe, vibrant community. We also believe that plans for future growth should consider agricultural and social needs while balancing environmental protection and economic development.
Navigating all of these factors can be challenging, but UPSTAR’s Government Affairs committee works hard to monitor key local initiatives and policy issues that could impact REALTORS®, homeowners, and our communities. They lobby for change and recommend policy positions that promote and protect the rights of property owners to ensure Northeast Indiana is healthy and growing.
Fair Housing
Our Commitment to Fair Housing
REALTORS® have an opportunity and a responsibility to increase diversity and inclusivity in the real estate market. We believe that everyone in the community should have the right to equal-opportunity housing and that they should be able to rent or purchase their shelter of choice regardless of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
Every new REALTOR® is required by UPSTAR to take an orientation class that covers Fair Housing and Code of Ethics Training before they can officially use the term “REALTOR.” Additionally, REALTORS® are required to complete Fair Housing / Anti-Bias Training upon becoming a member, and every 3 years thereafter, coinciding with the Code of Ethics training timeline.
Fair Housing Resources
Report Housing Discrimination
What to do if you suspect housing discrimination
Contact UPSTAR
We are the local Board of REALTORS® for Adams, Allen, Huntington, Jay, Wells, and Whitley counties. We work in cooperation with the Indiana Association of REALTORS® to accept complaints alleging REALTOR® violations of the Code of Ethics filed by a home seeker who alleges discriminatory treatment in the availability, purchase, or rental of housing. The local and state REALTOR® associations have a responsibility to enforce the Code of Ethics through professional standards procedures and corrective action in cases where a violation of the Code of Ethics is proven to have occurred. You can reach us at 260-426-4700.
Contact Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission
Fort Wayne Metro is the local civil rights agency, investigating discrimination complaints and educating the public about diversity and discrimination issues. They have a cooperative agreement with the US Department of Housing & Urban Development to enforce the federal Fair Housing Act on behalf of the federal government.
Economic Development
Economic growth and development in Northeast Indiana is critical for the business success of REALTORS® and the community at large. That’s why UPSTAR is intentional about supporting legislation, initiatives, and organizations that help foster a climate for economic growth in the region.
Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
The Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership (NEIRP) is a public-private regional economic development organization that represents and serves 11 member counties, driving business investment and strengthening the region’s global competitiveness and economic resiliency.
