BE HONEST AND UPFRONT ABOUT HOME DEFECTS

THE BEST way for a seller to fulfil their legal obligation to disclose any property defects without negatively influencing a sale is to be open and honest with buyers from the start, says Roger Lotz, franchisee for Rawson Properties Helderberg Group.

“Documents relating to every property sale must include a disclosure document that lists any defects the current owner may be aware of.

“That document should include everything from structural defects to plumbing and electrical issues, to noisy neighbours and that stain on the carpet you hide with your couch.” Most estate agents have a standard disclosure questionnaire that they’ll run through with sellers at some point during the listing process. However, Lotz says, these are sometimes held back from buyers until an offer is accepted.

“Waiting until an offer has been accepted before disclosing any defects to the buyer defeats the purpose, in my opinion.

“The entire point of disclosure is to ensure buyers are fully informed before making their offer.

“This minimises the likelihood of the sale falling through, avoids disputes during the transfer process and prevents potentially expensive litigation down the line.”

Disclosing faults in a property at the start of negotiations minimises the chance of a sale falling through. PICTURE: JON TYSON/UNSPLASH