California Real Estate Practice Exam

An owner has been found guilty of discrimination under the Health and Safety Code. What action can the aggrieved party take?

1. May be awarded $500 in damages if neither a nor b available

2. May purchase another like property, if the original property is not available

3. May purchase the property in question, if still available

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: May be awarded $500 in damages if neither a nor b available

The correct response indicates that the aggrieved party may be awarded $500 in damages if neither purchasing another like property nor purchasing the original property in question is available. This is consistent with remedies available for discrimination cases under California law. In situations where an owner has engaged in discriminatory practices, the law provides specific remedies to the party that was discriminated against. When purchasing another like property or the original property is not an option, providing a monetary compensation of $500 serves as a means of redress for the party affected by the discrimination. This amount reflects a statutory minimum that acknowledges the harm done. In this case, the other actions mentioned, such as purchasing another property or the original property, are also valid potential remedies but they are contingent on certain conditions—namely, whether those properties are available for purchase. If these options are not feasible, then the aggrieved party has a straightforward remedy through the damages provision. This demonstrates the legal framework in place aimed at addressing discrimination while providing avenues for reparation.