Dunno how common this is but in my home state of Indiana the non-discrimination laws include specific exemptions for properties used as homes by the lessor. I imagine that would provide an out for people like Crissie if it ever came to a civil suit.

Just to set the record straight for Crissie's sake. Crissie is the friend he was going to visit and is not responsible for any of the discrimination.

Also, the racist does not use this property as a primary residence. It's one among many vacation rentals she owns so she has no protections under the law.

D'oh, sorry. Reading comprehension ftw.

These roommate exceptions are definitely needed for a verity of reason. Living with someone is deeply personal as such you should be able to discriminate more that a simple commercial lease arrangement, however from the story I doubt they would apply as the author states "crissie" is in California and not on the property, or at least it is not her primary residence, might be a vacation home, or it might be pure rental income.

Actually the author (as well as Steltek just above you) stated Crissie is the friend he is going to visit, not the Airbnb host.