Question 12

Assist the buyers in consummating the deal.

The licensee's obligation is to assist the buyers in consummating the deal, ensuring they have access to housing opportunities without discrimination based on race.

A) Discourage the buyers to ensure that the licensee will not be disciplined for steering

This option is incorrect because discouraging buyers based on their minority status would constitute discriminatory steering, which is illegal. The licensee is obligated to provide equal treatment to all clients regardless of their race.

B) Comply with the buyer's wishes, but advise them of the racial composition in the area

While advising buyers about the racial composition can be informative, it must be done without implying that they should avoid the area due to their minority status. This option does not fulfill the licensee's responsibility to assist the buyers fully and fairly.

C) Continue to show houses and encourage them to select another area

This option is also incorrect as it suggests steering the buyers towards a different area based on their minority status. The licensee should not influence the buyers' choices based on race, which would violate fair housing laws.

D) Assist the buyers in consummating the deal

This is the correct answer because the licensee is required to help the minority couple through the home-buying process without any bias or discrimination. The licensee must facilitate their purchase in accordance with fair housing practices.

Conclusion

The licensee's primary responsibility is to assist the buyers in the transaction, ensuring they have equal access to housing opportunities. Options A, B, and C all involve elements of steering or discrimination, which are contrary to fair housing laws. Therefore, option D is definitively the right choice, as it aligns with the obligation to support all clients equally.