What is an example of an unacceptable practice for a real estate licensee?

Discriminating against clients based on personal traits represents a serious violation of fair housing laws and ethical standards within the real estate industry. Such discrimination can be based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability, as outlined in the Fair Housing Act. Real estate professionals are mandated to provide equal opportunities to all clients and customers without bias.

This practice undermines the integrity of professional real estate services and is not only unethical but also illegal. The repercussions for engaging in such discriminatory practices can include losing one’s real estate license, civil penalties, and legal action.

In contrast, while other practices listed may raise ethical questions or lead to displeasure among clients, they do not carry the same level of legal consequences associated with outright discrimination, making them less serious in comparison. For instance, refusing to show properties based on affordability can be seen as bad customer service, but does not directly violate specific laws designed to ensure equal treatment in housing. Similarly, disclosing information without consent or providing false information could pose problems but would not equate to the direct discrimination outlined in the correct answer.