What Do Home Sellers Need to Reveal in Disclosures?

By Nathan King

Nathan King, a native of Fresno, has spent his entire life immersed in the vibrant Central Valley community. Nathan loves spending time with his family and helping his clients achieve their real estate goals.

Selling a home isn’t just about listing it and waiting for offers. Buyers expect honesty, and the law requires it. If you hide issues, you risk lawsuits, lost deals, and major headaches. The key to a smooth sale? Full transparency. Before you list your home, here’s what you must disclose to potential buyers.

Material defects. If your home has ever had serious problems, you must tell buyers. We’re talking about foundation cracks, roof leaks, mold, and past termite infestations. Even if these issues were fixed, you’re still required to disclose them. Hiding them can lead to legal trouble and financial loss. Buyers want to know what they’re getting into, and failing to mention past issues could cause them to back out of the deal—or worse, take legal action after the sale.

Past repairs and damages. If your basement flooded, your home needed rewiring, or you dealt with major plumbing issues, buyers deserve to know. Even if everything was professionally repaired, the history of the home is important. These details help buyers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected surprises after closing.

Location matters. Disclosures aren’t just about the house itself. Your home’s location can also impact a buyer’s experience, so you must disclose any external factors that could affect them. If your home is in a flood zone, near a noisy highway, or next to a long-term construction project, these details should be shared. Think about it—if you were moving in, wouldn’t you want to know? Being upfront builds trust with buyers and helps prevent future disputes.

If you’re ever unsure whether something should be disclosed, the safest answer is always yes. Hiding problems can lead to lawsuits, failed deals, and unnecessary stress. Being honest from the start makes everything smoother and keeps the process hassle-free.

If you have questions about disclosures or need guidance on selling your home, I’m here to help. Call me at +1 (559) 396-0000 or email info@kingrealestate.group. Let’s make your home sale smooth, simple, and stress-free.