What is a Seller’s Disclosure?

In Texas, providing a Seller’s Disclosure of property condition to a buyer is a legal statutory requirement for the sale of pre-owned single family homes.  

What is the purpose of the Sellers Disclosure?

The purpose of the Seller’s Disclosure is to make it clear what appliances, equipment, and features exist on the property; whether or not these items are working; if the seller knows of any defects or malfunctions in critical systems; if certain red-flag events like termite treatment, previous fires, foundation repair, or flooding have occurred; the need for repairs; and the existence of un-permitted additions, unpaid HOA fees, violations of deed restrictions, lawsuits, or conditions that “materially affect the health or safety of an individual.

Whom does the Sellers Disclosure protect?

Both Seller and Buyer are protected by the Sellers Disclosure. The Buyer is aware of these things and the Seller is protected from any future liability if a defect is discovered and was disclosed.

Willfully concealing property defects is engaging in criminal fraudulent inducement. Also both parties must understand a defect that has been repaired is no longer a defect. Some level of judgement applies to revealing past repairs that might be perceived as an indication of future required repairs. Notably fire, wood destroying insects, foundation, and underground plumbing repairs fall in this category.

I am selling the home as-is. Do I still need a Sellers Disclosure?

Understand there is no such thing as “sold as-is” to minimize the duty to disclose. Whether the seller has lived in the home or not a Seller’s Disclosure must be provided. There are exceptions for financial institutions, new construction, and multi-family homes such as duplexes. 

Do I still need to have the home inspected?

For Buyers, a Seller’s Disclosure does not preclude the need for a thorough inspection and can provide guidance of items of inspection that need more attention.

For Sellers, a Seller’s Disclosure is not only a form of legal protection it is a selling document as well. Use it to show when critical systems have been replaced and highlight the quality of the replacement item and existing warranties.

This video from the MetroTex Association of Realtors® helps explain why and how to use the Seller’s Disclosure form. There are different versions of the form each with at least the legal minimum required disclosures. 

MetroTex Association of Realtors® – What is a Seller’s Disclosure?

Notice: This website contains general information about possible legal and financial matters. The information is not advice, and should not be treated as such. You must not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to legal or financial advice from your attorney, accountant, or other professional legal services provider. If you have any specific questions about any legal and financial matter you should consult your attorney, accountant, or other professional legal services provider


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I’m excited to announce that after 18 years of providing dedicated service, our clients have collectively saved over $10,000,000 in commissions! Among these savings are over $1,100,000 for clients who found unrepresented buyers and were able to avoid any selling costs. On top of that, we’ve distributed more than $330,000 in incentive rebates to over 100 satisfied buyers. These remarkable achievements are a true testament to our commitment to providing high-quality, cost-effective real estate services to our clients.

Tod G. Franklin – Realtor®, Broker, Owner, and multi-million dollar producer at DFWCityhomes

DFWCityhomes is an established and highly regarded Flat Fee MLS Listing Service company in Texas. We have been providing dedicated service for almost two decades delivering personalized service to each client. As the best Flat Fee MLS Listing Service in Texas, we offer affordable and excellent service, while our track record showcases our commitment to professionalism, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

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