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What if You Discover Something Horrible on a Property Disclosure?

Posted by Angie Johnson on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at 2:28 PM By Angie Johnson / November 21, 2019 Comment

When you’re buying a home for sale in Lakewood, Long Beach or any other community, you’ll get a property disclosure statement.

But what are you supposed to do if it reveals something horrible?

What if You Discover Something Horrible on a Property Disclosure?

If you see something on your property disclosure statement that troubles you, bring it up with your Realtor(R). He or she can bring it up with the listing agent - and sometimes, the sellers have a perfectly reasonable explanation. Maybe there was a wasp nest in the chimney a few years ago, but an exterminator took care of the problem; perhaps there was some mold growing beneath an old tub that’s since been replaced.

Your property disclosure statement will include issues regarding things like:

  • Windows that don’t close

  • Doors that stick

  • Foundation problems

  • Leaky roof issues

  • Problems with appliances

  • Problems with home systems, such as the HVAC or electrical system

  • Renovations that were completed without permits

  • Pest infestation

  • Mold infestation

  • Environmental hazards in the area, like floods or wildfires

What Can You Do if the Home Has Pre-Existing Issues?

If the home you want to buy has pre-existing issues listed on a property disclosure statement, you’ll have a few options:

  • You might be able to negotiate on price with the seller, because you’ll have to pay to repair the items

  • You may be able to get the seller to repair them at no cost to you

  • You might be able to back out of the deal, keeping your earnest money deposit

Every situation is different, and some sellers are willing to negotiate while others are not. Talk to your real estate agent if you see something horrible on the property disclosure form - he or she will give you the guidance you need.

Are You Buying a Home in Lakewood or Long Beach?

If you’re buying a home in Lakewood or Long Beach, we can help. Call us at 562-882-1581. Tell us what you want from your next home and we’ll start searching for it right away. 

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