I just helped a gentleman sell his condo because he had moved into a new family home. I met with him at this new home last evening to complete seller disclosures. Just in his new home a few days, he shared with me a bit of buyer’s remorse. Several of the floors were slanting, both on the main as well as second floor. He kept saying ‘the sellers should have disclosed this.’ This is a true statement.
It is just as true that the buyer should have inspected the floors more closely during his inspection period. Neither he, nor his agent, nor his inspector, noticed the problem prior to close. Thus, the matter was never investigated. As he showed me around the home, it was pretty obvious to an experienced eye.
I felt for him since this was a rather expensive home. When I asked whether this would have affected his decision to buy this home, his response was ‘yes.’ There are no easy answers here, but lots of lessons.
His agent was from a big name company who is known for offering rebates to buyers. They also tend to hire relatively inexperienced agents since they pay them very little. When I asked him about the inspector, he said he chose one from the phone book.
I have nothing against saving money nor inexperienced agents. Buyers, it is your money. Choose your Realtor and you inspector so very cautiously. Use referrals from family and friends, or use the numerous review sites to select professionals with strong reviews. Buying a home in San Diego is a significant financial investment. This is not the time to be worrying about saving a few dollars. You would rather be proactive, and work with experienced professionals than feel buyer’s remorse after the close.
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