Which of the following tasks may not be performed by unlicensed assistants?

Unlicensed assistants are individuals who may support licensed real estate professionals but are restricted in certain activities they can perform. Cold calling or prospecting involves reaching out to potential clients to generate leads for real estate transactions, which is considered a core activity in the practice of real estate. This task requires the direct engagement with potential buyers or sellers and involves soliciting business, which is only permissible for licensed individuals.

In contrast, preparing basic forms, searching public records, and completing listing data are tasks that support licensed agents in their work without directly engaging in the real estate transaction process. These activities are more administrative in nature and do not involve the same level of consumer interaction or solicitation that cold calling does. Hence, while unlicensed assistants can be involved in many supportive roles, prospecting is distinctly limited to those who hold a real estate license.