Final answer:
A licensee cannot legally consider a prospective buyer's marital status when showing residential properties, as it may fall under 'familial status', which is a protected characteristic under the Fair Housing Act. Studies by HUD have demonstrated discrimination in real estate towards black, Asian, and Hispanic individuals, reinforcing the need for compliance with anti-discrimination laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether a licensee can consider a prospective buyer's marital status when showing residential properties. It's important to note that under the Fair Housing Act, it is illegal for real estate professionals to discriminate against homebuyers based on certain protected characteristics, which include race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. While the Act does not explicitly mention marital status, in many instances, familial status could be interpreted to include the marital status of individuals, especially when it affects the presence of children in the household.
Recent studies conducted by HUD have highlighted discriminatory practices in real estate where black homebuyers are shown fewer homes, and a similar trend is observed with Asians and Hispanics who experience discrimination in both buying and renting properties. Consequently, real estate licensees must ensure their actions comply with all anti-discrimination laws when showing properties to prospective buyers, regardless of their marital status.