Restrictive covenants

A provision on a deed, mortgage or other recorded instrument that regulates the ownership or use of a parcel of real estate. Discriminatory restrictive covenants spread throughout the United States in the early twentieth century. Discriminatory restrictive covenants were intended to prevent people of color from moving into certain neighborhoods. Although they are now illegal and unenforceable, some properties may still include discriminatory covenants in their historical record. (Source: Adapted from Fannie Mae, Restrictive Covenants)