This week I wanted to share with you a very important article brought to us courtesy of WSFA 12 News:
This was my first time buying."
That's why Shirley Brock hired a realtor she could trust, a critical move considering Alabama is among a hand-full of states that does not require home sellers to tell potential buyers about problems with the house, although there are exceptions. The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled in previous cases the seller must disclose issues if they involve health and safety problems.
"You and I should have a responsibility to ourselves," said Brock.
Recently, a first-time home buyer near Mobile felt she had been mislead not only by her agent but also by the seller. Once the new homeowner moved in, problems like rotting wood started cropping up. The new homeowner reportedly did not have the property inspected.
"The Alabama Supreme Court has held that Alabama is a 'caveat emptor' state, meaning that it is the duty of the buyer to inspect and make themselves satisfied about the conditions of the property they want to purchase," said Charles Sowell of the Alabama Real Estate Commission.
When it comes to real estate Alabama has often been called a 'buyer beware' state, and one veteran state lawmaker says don't expect the Alabama legislature to change that label.
"Everybody is always talking about government intrusion in their lives," said Representative Thad McClammy of Montgomery.
And besides McClammy points to the fact that the state requires home inspectors to be licensed and certified, one more tool prospective home buyers can use to protect themselves. Take it from Shirley Brock; she's been in her condo for 5 years and has no regrets.
"You have to make sure you get a reputable agent or a real estate lawyer," Brock said.
To learn more about Montgomery AL real estate, please call me at 800-HAT-LADY or visit www.HomesForSaleInMontgomeryAlabama.com. You may also begin searching for Montgomery AL homes here!
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