In New York State, a required form exists for sellers of residential real property to disclose the condition of the property to potential buyers. This document provides detailed information about the property’s various systems and structural components, including plumbing, heating, electrical, roofing, and any known defects or issues. For instance, the seller must disclose whether there have been any water leaks, pest infestations, or structural damage. This disclosure offers prospective purchasers a comprehensive overview of the property’s condition before finalizing a purchase agreement.
This legally mandated disclosure plays a crucial role in real estate transactions, promoting transparency and informed decision-making. It helps protect buyers from unforeseen problems and potential repair costs after purchasing a property. By providing this information upfront, the form fosters trust between buyers and sellers and reduces the likelihood of disputes arising from undisclosed issues. Historically, the implementation of this type of disclosure requirement aimed to address informational asymmetry in real estate transactions, empowering buyers with knowledge previously held primarily by sellers.