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Number of Bedrooms Advertised on the Listing

By
Home Inspector with AIM Home Inspection, Inc.

I recently inspected a home that was listed as 4 bedrooms.  One of the "bedrooms" was located in the lower level of the home and the only window in the room did not meet required code for safe egress in the event of an emergency.  I described this condition to my client and included the information in the inspection report.  The appraiser noted the same condition, which reduced the appraised value of the home below the contract price.  The sellers were forced to accept less money due to this over sight.

Realtors, please make sure all listed bedrooms meet or exceed egress requirements.  I am sure the sellers were not too pleased with their realtor in this case.

John Evans

AIM Home Inspection, Inc.

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Joe Adams
Major Mortgage USA/Branch Manager - Montrose, CO
let me add that if it doesn't have a closet it is not a bedroom.  I have been it too many homes that over claim the number off bedrooms, but I will say that here in Western Colorado it is getting better, false reporting on the MLS is a small fine but a fine anyway
Jun 10, 2007 02:25 PM
Jon Mitchell
Classic Property Management - Santa Clarita, CA

Great point John.  It is funny what some realtors will try to get away with when describing a property.  Lets just say that they can be MORE than generous!

Jun 10, 2007 02:34 PM
Gregory Maley
Sold Buy the Sea Realty & R.E.N.T. - Wilmington, NC
REALTOR, GRI, CBR, SHS, e-PRO, ABR
Joe, you can't say a room is not a bedroom just because it doesn't have a closet.  Many historic homes don't have closets.  
Jun 10, 2007 02:54 PM
Lanre-"THE REAL ESTATE FARMER" Folayan
ERNAL REAL ESTATE GROUP with Samson Properties - Bowie, MD
I don't make promises.I deliver results.SOLD HOMES

We all know that if the room does not have a window and closet,it is not a room. We as realtors need to do a better job when we list the features of a home in a listing. Great post.

May 10, 2008 10:22 AM