Which characteristic is specifically mentioned to avoid bias in the new Nondiscrimination section?

The characteristic specifically mentioned to avoid bias in the new Nondiscrimination section is race. This focus is essential because race has historically been a critical factor in housing discrimination, affecting individuals' access to fair housing, employment, and other opportunities. By emphasizing race in the nondiscrimination policies, regulatory frameworks aim to actively prevent discriminatory practices that may arise from biases based on an individual’s racial background. Addressing race explicitly helps ensure that appraisals, lending practices, and housing opportunities are equitable and do not perpetuate systemic inequalities. This attention to race reinforces the commitment to fair treatment for all individuals, thus promoting a more just and inclusive environment in real estate transactions.