Final answer:
The best response to the owner's inquiry about the prospective tenants' race is to inform him that you cannot answer that question, as it is important to adhere to fair housing laws and avoid discrimination based on race or ethnicity. The best response to the owner's question, considering ethical and fair housing practices, is: b) Tell him that you cannot answer that question.
Step-by-step explanation:
You are renting apartments for your principal/owner and showing an apartment to an Oriental couple. The best response to the owner's question about the race of the prospective tenants is b) Tell him that you cannot answer that question. This response is in compliance with fair housing laws which prohibit discrimination based on race or ethnicity. Providing this information could make you complicit in potential discrimination which is illegal. It's important to stay professional and adhere to the Equal Opportunity and Fair Housing laws by refusing to disclose the race of the clients. Instead, focus on the qualifications of the tenants, such as their ability to pay rent and references. Discrimination in the housing market, whether it's less access to homes or more stringent credit checks based on race or ethnicity, is interconnected with employment discrimination, as they both contribute to systemic inequality. The HUD studies have demonstrated evidence of such discriminatory practices, indicating the importance of strict adherence to anti-discrimination laws in all professional fields.