Thankfully, I do not live in Seattle, but as a small-time landlord (~10 units) I can give two examples in real-life of perfectly legitimate reasons why I discriminate against some prospective tenants.
1, Our building is near a large employer, and every vacancy we have there is at least one application from employees of this company. Sometimes there are several. I have a rule that no more than 3 of our units can be occupied by employees of this company.
Discrimination, yes. But every financial advisor in the world preaches diversification of assets. If this company were to have a bad quarter, or year, there might be layoffs. If I lost 3 renters all at the same time that would be a disaster for me. So, I require diversity of employment for tenants.
2. If a prospective tenant has too HIGH an income I will not take them.
Why? Experience shows that high-income tenants really want to own a house, and can qualify for one. They are not going to be long-term tenants. Every time someone moves out and I have to clean, re-paint, and re-rent I lose at least one month’s rent and maybe two.
In both cases, I am not discriminating against any protected class. I am very legitimately protecting my own business interests.
I look for long-term, stable tenants with no drug or alcohol issues.
“2. If a prospective tenant has too HIGH an income I will not take them.
Why? Experience shows that high-income tenants really want to own a house, and can qualify for one-—
Even empty nesters?
Many people with lots of money want to rent because they are sick and tired of ownership and want to travel.
I personally know 2 couples that did this.
.