Realtors and sellers must follow strict laws regarding certain disclosures about the properties they have on the market. In many cases, the laws vary by state.
Such is the case for disclosing deaths that occurred on the property in the past. So, what does Arizona law demand of sellers?
Arizona has no death disclosure requirements
Unlike some other states, there is no mandatory notification to buyers that the property they propose to buy has been the site of a death, including homicides and suicides.
Does that surprise you? It shouldn’t, as many states have no mandatory death disclosures. However, there is one caveat.
Sellers and realtors must answer truthfully
Should a potential buyer directly ask about the history of the house and any deaths of former residents, they must answer truthfully, just as they would have to tell the truth about any other factors. Most people realize that it is likely that homeowner deaths occurred in older homes.
Why does this matter?
To many prospective buyers, a peaceful, natural death would bring no worries whatsoever. Some stigma can linger when a home was the site of a violent murder or tragic suicide. Still, some buyers may not care and use the event to get you to lower your price. Your response to that tactic would typically be market-dependent.
Stay on the side of the angels with disclosures
The best way to emerge from the sale of your property is to ensure that you have followed the letter of the law in all mandatory disclosures to the seller. Make sure your legal team protects you when buying and selling property by learning more about the legal requirements.
