SELLING A HOME in Myrtle Beach is a legal transaction subject to the laws of the State of South Carolina. That’s why most property owners let a professional Realtor® and attorney handle the paperwork for them… they want to stay out of trouble.

Today’s answer in the series - “Answers to the Ten Most Common Questions Home Sellers Ask” – addresses a legal issue.*

Question #9 - “If there is something wrong with my Myrtle Beach home, do I have to tell the buyer?”

ABSOLUTELY – South Carolina has real estate consumer protection laws that benefit both buyer and seller. Not only is it in the seller’s best interest to disclose everything regarding the state of the property, it is also illegal not to do so.

Every seller of residential property is required to fill out a Residential Property Condition Disclosure Statement provided by the State. As the seller, you are responsible for giving this completed form/questionnaire to the buyer prior to signing a contract for sale. Your Realtor® is also required to disclose any material facts about the property which he/she knows.

What to do? Sellers who think they have a problem can hire a licensed Home Inspector to inspect the property prior to putting it on the market… and get the problem fixed. A seller who goes above and beyond the law’s requirements for home inspections and disclosure will make buyers more comfortable about buying his/her home and, in some cases, even pay more for it.

*This Q & A is not offered as legal advice. For specific legal advice on this or any real estate related issue consult your attorney.

Next Monday - “How can I tell a good offer from a bad one?”
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For more information on preparing your property for sale, order Barbara’s free Special Report: “7 Insider Secrets on Showcasing Your Home for a Successful Sale.” Order online at www.BarbaraChartier.com , or call her 24/7 hotline, toll-free, at 1-888-494-8654 Ext 224… for recorded directions.