Final answer:
A broker found guilty of violating the Federal Fair Housing laws faces significant penalties, but none of the listed options ($10,000, $20,000, $30,000, $40,000) match the current penalties; the correct penalty for a first-time violation as of 2021 is $21,663.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a broker is found guilty of violation of the Federal Fair Housing laws, the penalties can be significant. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. Penalties for violating the Federal Fair Housing Act can increase with subsequent violations. For example, for a first-time violation, the maximum civil penalty is $21,663 as of 2021 (adjusted for inflation), not the fixed amounts listed in the options given. With the information provided, none of the answer choices ($10,000, $20,000, $30,000, or $40,000) directly corresponds to the current penalties described for a violation of the housing laws. It should be noted that these amounts can be updated annually based on inflation, and additional damages may be awarded depending on the specifics of the case.
Real estate professionals must ensure non-discriminatory practices to avoid both legal repercussions and the perpetuation of systemic housing discrimination as detailed in studies by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.