Either disclose that defect or get another agent

If you are looking to sell your home in Dauphin County Pennsylvania, you will be asked to fill out a seller's disclosure.  It is illegal in most states for a seller to knowingly conceal major defects from buyers and Pennsylvania is one of those states.  If you hire me to represent you as a listing agent, even though I have a fiduciary responsibility to you, I have a higher responsibility to obey the law and will be required to disclose any known defect. 

Not too long ago, an owner contacted me to list a property for sale and did not disclose any issue with the basement retaining water during heavy storms.  This owner had lived in the property since the age of 15, so at least 30 years, and stated the basement was always dry, never a leak. 

Well, as a part of my marketing plan, after I list a property for sale, I like to walk around the neighborhood with flyers of the home introducing myself to the neighbors and letting them know the features and list price of the home.  This is the perfect time for people to chose their neighbors, if they have a friend or family member that wants to move to the neighborhood. 

Well, this particular time, I was surprised to find several neighbors wishing me luck for this particular home as the basement always took water when it rained for any length of time.  They recalled the numerous times the owner as a child was hauling the buckets of water out of the basement.  Their fond memories sure sat like a ton of bricks on my stomach.  I had to address this with the seller.

I contacted the owner and let them know they would need to update the seller's disclosure to include the discovered information.  When Mrs Seller hesitated, I quickly informed her she had 2 choices, either disclose the known defect or start interviewing other agents.  I cannot represent clients that are less than truthful. 

If you are an ethical person with high integrity looking to work with a like-minded real estate professional to help you with your Dauphin County real estate needs, I will be glad to help.

Have questions about buying or selling a home in Northern Dauphin County? I'll be glad to help. Check out MelissaStahlRealtor.com.