ADVICE March 6, 2025
When purchasing a home, knowing as much as possible about the property is essential. You want to make an informed decision and avoid unexpected surprises after closing. That’s where I come in! As your Realtor, I’m here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you understand what seller disclosures mean for your purchase.
Seller disclosures are documents that provide buyers with a clear understanding of a property's known issues or potential concerns. These can include structural problems, past repairs, neighborhood nuisances, environmental hazards, and any other details that could impact the property's value or safety. California sellers must disclose material defects that they are aware of.
If you have any concerns about what’s included in the disclosures, ask me! I can help you break down the information and determine how it affects your decision.
Buying a home is a major financial commitment, and seller disclosures help you avoid purchasing a property with hidden defects. Knowing about potential issues upfront allows you to make a fully informed decision before finalizing the purchase.
Transparency in disclosures helps you prepare for any repairs or maintenance the home may need. This prevents you from encountering unexpected costs down the road and allows you to budget accordingly.
Disclosures don’t just protect you—they also give you leverage in negotiations. If significant issues are disclosed, we may be able to negotiate repairs or a price adjustment before closing. I’ll help you navigate these conversations to ensure you get the best deal possible.
While disclosure requirements vary, some common items include:
Known structural issues
Water damage or mold
History of repairs or renovations
Environmental concerns
HOA fees or restrictions
Not sure what to make of a disclosure? I'll be going over it with you. I can help you understand what’s typical, what’s concerning, and what steps to take next.
Review Disclosures Thoroughly – Take the time to read through all disclosure documents and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Consult Me! – I’m here to help interpret disclosures and advise you on any concerns. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Get a Home Inspection – Disclosures provide valuable information, but a professional home inspection can help verify the property's condition.
Use Disclosures for Negotiation – If the disclosures reveal major defects, we can discuss how to use them to negotiate repairs or price reductions.
Seller disclosures provide you with essential information to make an informed decision when purchasing a home. They help protect your investment, prevent costly surprises, and give you leverage in negotiations. I’m here to help you every step of the way! If you have any questions or want to discuss how disclosures impact your home purchase, reach out to me. Let’s make sure you feel confident and informed as you move forward in your home-buying journey.
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Get assistance in determining current property value, crafting a competitive offer, writing and negotiating a contract, and much more. Contact Josh today.