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KPBS Midday Edition

Full Disclosure: What California Home Sellers Must Tell Buyers

Full Disclosure: What U.S. Home Sellers Must Tell Buyers

Did you know you have to disclose if someone died in your home to a potential buyer? That's just one of many disclosure codes on the books in California intended to eliminate unnecessary litigation between sellers and buyers after the sale of a home.

Tanya Hertz, lecturer at San Diego State's College of Business Administration, said it is important to closely check disclosure documents before signing off on a new home.

Disclosure extends to the area outside of the boundaries of the property sold. For instance, if you've had to call the police repeatedly on a neighbor, it must be disclosed. If there's been a heinous murder in the neighborhood, it must be disclosed. And even if the current owners believe the home is haunted — yes, disclose it.

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On KPBS Evening Edition Tanya Hertz, a licensed real estate broker, discusses some of the unique disclosure codes in place.