Selling a property involves a multitude of responsibilities, including providing potential buyers with essential information about the property's condition, history, and potential issues. While the concept of seller disclosures is universal, the specific requirements can vary significantly from state to state.
Almost every U.S. state has passed laws mandating that sellers give buyers specific information about what structural and other features the house contains, and their condition. In some cases, the brokers must speak up about hidden conditions, too.
Purpose of Disclosure Form: This is a statement of certain conditions and information concerning the property actually known by the owner.
Almost every U.S. state has passed laws mandating that sellers give buyers specific information about what structural and other features the house contains, and their condition. In some cases, the brokers must speak up about hidden conditions, too.
Ohio Real Estate Disclosure Laws Sellers are legally obligated to provide accurate and complete information on the Residential Property Disclosure Form. Not disclosing known defects can lead to legal issues and jeopardize the transaction.
Sellers are required to disclose property information to the realtor and potential buyers based on state and local laws. A disclosure document details a property's condition and what might negatively affect its value. Sellers who willfully conceal information can be sued and potentially convicted of a crime.
There are exceptions where no disclosure statement is required, including in sales or transfers between co-owners or between blood relatives or divorcing spouses, or in certain tax, bankruptcy, trust, and foreclosure sales. (See Code of Virginia § 55.1-702.)
In most states, by law, you have to disclose any issues with the property. By not disclosing, you open yourself up to lawsuit.
The Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act (§ 55.1-700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia) governs the information owners must disclose to prospective purchasers of residential real property. Certain residential property transfers are excluded from the requirements (see § 55.1-702).
Some of the most common real estate disclosures include: Structural or mechanical issues. Natural or environmental hazards. Any history or evidence of asbestos. Any history or evidence of lead-based paint in a structure. Property line disputes. Any other information regarding the property that may be relevant.