Home Sale Law in California

Buying or selling a home is one of the most critical decisions that most people make in their lifetime. It also involves some very complex legal and financial issues.

While it's possible in Alameda County, California for individuals to buy or sell property on their own, this is not the only (or necessarily best) option. There are many complex legal and financial issues involved, so the assistance of a professional is advisable.

Many individuals, families, and small businesses rely on real estate brokers to find property for them. Real estate brokers are professionals who serve as middlemen or women between the buyers and sellers of real estate.

In Alameda County, California, most real estate brokers are paid a commission, represented by a part of the sale price of the home. Some might charge a flat fee, however.

Getting a Mortgage in Alameda County, California

If the buyer asks the seller a question about the physical condition of the home, the seller is legally required to answer it honestly. If the seller lies when asked a direct question, they have committed a serious form of fraud, and, if sued by the buyer, will incur significantt liability.

Furthermore, most defects should be disclosed even if the buyer doesn't directly ask about them. Generally, defects which must be disclosed are those which are known to the seller, and which the buyer cannot be expected to find through a regular inspection.

Of course, buyers are also expected to conduct due diligence. In a case for nondisclosure, courts won't reward a lack of diligence.

Generally, buyers have a duty to conduct a reasonable inspection of the property before buying it. Therefore, buyers usually can't recover for defects that could have been discovered via reasonable inspection, unless the seller actively conceals them.

Can a Alameda County, California Real Estate Attorney help?

If you are buying a home in Alameda County, California, there are probably things you want to focus on other than paperwork and required inspections, such as the process of moving in, checking out schools, etc. A reputable real estate attorney can make it much easier to focus on the aspects of home ownership that matter to you.