Which body can take disciplinary action against a real estate licensee for discriminatory practices?

The Virginia Real Estate Board is the correct answer because it is the regulatory body that oversees real estate practices within the state of Virginia. The Board has the authority to enforce the Virginia Real Estate License Law, which includes taking disciplinary action against licensees who engage in discriminatory practices as defined under state and federal laws.

Discriminatory practices in real estate are taken very seriously, as they violate both ethical standards and legal requirements aimed at promoting fair housing. The Board can investigate complaints, hold hearings, and impose penalties, including suspension or revocation of a license, against those found guilty of discrimination.

The other options each have different roles; for instance, while courts may interpret and enforce laws, they are not specialized for administrative disciplinary actions against real estate licensees. Local government offices may have zoning and local ordinances, but they do not handle licensing issues. The Federal Housing Agency deals with broader aspects of housing policy and might address issues on a national level, but it wouldn’t directly take disciplinary action against individual licensees in Virginia. Thus, the Virginia Real Estate Board is specifically structured to manage and uphold the standards set for real estate professionals in the state, making it the appropriate body for such actions.