Why You Should Request a Seller’s Disclosure

26 May 2025

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. It's exciting, nerve-wracking, and—let’s be honest—kind of overwhelming. There’s so much to consider: location, price, mortgage rates, and, of course, the condition of the property. That’s where a Seller’s Disclosure comes in.

If you’re about to put down your hard-earned money on a house, you need to know what you’re getting into. A Seller’s Disclosure could be the difference between making a smart investment and walking into a financial disaster. But what exactly is a Seller’s Disclosure, and why is it so important?

Let’s break it down.

What is a Seller’s Disclosure?

A Seller’s Disclosure is a document that provides a detailed history of the home, including any known issues, repairs, or defects. Think of it as the seller’s way of saying, “Here’s everything I know about this house—no secrets, no surprises.”

This document is usually required by law in most states and covers things like:

- Structural problems (foundation cracks, roof leaks, etc.)
- Plumbing or electrical issues
- Past water damage or flooding
- Mold or pest infestations
- Lead paint, asbestos, or other hazardous materials
- Any history of major repairs or renovations

Essentially, a Seller’s Disclosure gives you a peek into the home's past, ensuring you’re not walking into a money pit.

Why a Seller’s Disclosure Matters

1. Uncover Hidden Issues Before You Buy

Imagine buying what looks like your dream home, only to find out later that it has a cracked foundation or a history of flooding. Without a Seller’s Disclosure, you wouldn’t know about these problems until it’s too late.

Having this information upfront allows you to identify potential red flags before you commit. If a home has major issues, you can either walk away or negotiate repairs with the seller.

2. Protect Yourself from Costly Repairs

Homes don’t come with a return policy. Once you sign that dotted line, the house—and all its problems—becomes yours.

A Seller’s Disclosure helps you avoid unexpected expenses by highlighting any existing problems. Instead of getting hit with unexpected repair bills after closing, you’ll know ahead of time what, if anything, needs fixing.

Wouldn’t you rather spend your money decorating your new home instead of fixing someone else’s mistakes?

3. Negotiation Power is in Your Hands

If the Seller’s Disclosure reveals issues with the home, you now have leverage. You can:

- Ask the seller to lower the price to compensate for necessary repairs.
- Request that the seller fix problems before closing.
- Walk away entirely if the issues are too severe.

Knowledge is power, and in real estate, it can save you thousands of dollars.

4. Avoid Legal Headaches Down the Road

Let’s say you buy a house and later discover a major problem the seller knew about but didn’t disclose. You could potentially take legal action, but let’s be honest—lawsuits are expensive, time-consuming, and stressful.

A proper disclosure reduces the chance of disputes between buyers and sellers, making the process smoother for everyone.

5. It Gives You Peace of Mind

Buying a home is stressful enough. The last thing you want is to constantly worry about what surprises might be lurking behind the walls.

A Seller’s Disclosure allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing exactly what you’re getting into. Whether the home is in perfect shape or has a few issues, you’ll be making an informed decision—and that’s priceless.

What If the Seller Doesn’t Provide a Disclosure?

While most states require sellers to provide disclosures, some states have more relaxed laws. If the seller isn’t offering one voluntarily, ask for it.

If the seller refuses? That’s a major red flag. Either:

1. They’re hiding something.
2. They don’t know the home’s history well enough (which is still concerning).

In this case, a home inspection becomes even more critical. Hire a licensed inspector to do a thorough check of the property before signing anything.

Can a Seller’s Disclosure Be Inaccurate?

Unfortunately, yes. Some sellers may “forget” to mention certain issues, while others might not even be aware of underlying problems. That’s why a Seller’s Disclosure should never replace a professional home inspection.

A good inspector can catch things the seller might have missed (or conveniently left out), giving you a complete picture of the home's condition.

What’s Typically Included in a Seller’s Disclosure?

While disclosures vary by state, they generally cover the following key areas:

1. Structural and Mechanical Issues

- Cracks in the foundation
- Roof leaks or damage
- HVAC, plumbing, or electrical issues

2. Environmental Hazards

- Presence of radon, asbestos, or lead-based paint
- History of flooding or water damage
- Mold or pest infestations

3. Property Disputes or Liens

- Boundary disputes with neighbors
- Zoning issues and easements
- Outstanding liens on the property

4. Past Repairs and Renovations

- Major renovations or additions
- Warranty information for recent repairs

By reviewing these details, you can spot potential deal-breakers before it's too late.

Final Thoughts: Always Request a Seller’s Disclosure

A Seller’s Disclosure isn’t just another piece of paperwork—it’s a crucial tool that protects you as a buyer.

It uncovers hidden issues, gives you negotiation power, helps you avoid costly mistakes, and offers peace of mind. If a seller refuses to provide one, consider it a major red flag and proceed with extreme caution.

At the end of the day, buying a home should be an exciting and rewarding experience. Requesting a Seller’s Disclosure ensures that you're making a smart, informed decision for your future—because no one wants to buy a home full of expensive surprises.

So, before you sign on that dotted line, ask yourself: "Do I really know everything about this house?" If the answer is no, it’s time to get that disclosure in hand.