Arizona's Seller Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS) must disclose:
Audio Lesson
Duration: 2:31
Question & Answer
Review the question and all answer choices
Only structural defects
A is incorrect because disclosure requirements extend beyond structural defects. Arizona's SPDS includes non-structural issues like environmental hazards, zoning restrictions, and material defects in systems like plumbing or electrical.
All known material facts about the property
Only items that cost over $500
C is incorrect because Arizona law does not establish a $500 monetary threshold for disclosure. Materiality is determined by significance to a buyer's decision, not by cost of repair.
Nothing is required
D is incorrect because Arizona law mandates that sellers provide a completed SPDS to buyers, making disclosure a legal requirement rather than optional.
Why is this correct?
B is correct because Arizona's SPDS requires sellers to disclose all known material facts about the property. Material facts are any information that would affect a buyer's decision or the property's value, not just structural issues or those meeting a specific monetary threshold.
Deep Analysis
AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept
In real estate practice, disclosure requirements form the foundation of ethical transactions and legal compliance. This question tests understanding of Arizona's Seller Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS), a critical document that protects buyers and reduces liability for sellers. The core concept here is the scope of disclosure obligations - what sellers must reveal to potential buyers. Option A (only structural defects) is too narrow, as disclosures include non-structural issues. Option C (items over $500) incorrectly introduces a monetary threshold not present in Arizona law. Option D is clearly wrong as disclosure is mandatory. Option B correctly captures the broad requirement to disclose all known material facts - information that would influence a buyer's decision or affect property value. This question challenges students who may confuse disclosure requirements with inspection reports or assume only significant physical defects must be disclosed. Understanding this concept connects to broader real estate principles of agency law, contract formation, and risk management in transactions.
Knowledge Background
Essential context and foundational knowledge
The Seller Property Disclosure Statement originated as consumer protection measures to address information asymmetry in real estate transactions. Arizona adopted its SPDS requirement to ensure buyers receive material information about property conditions before purchase. This document helps prevent future disputes by creating a written record of what the seller knew and disclosed. The 'material facts' standard focuses on information that would reasonably influence a buyer's decision or affect the property's value or desirability. While inspectors verify property condition, sellers are responsible for disclosing what they actually know about the property's history and condition.
Think of the SPDS as a complete medical history for the property - not just broken bones (structural defects), but also allergies (environmental issues), past surgeries (repairs), and hereditary conditions (known recurring problems).
When facing disclosure questions, ask yourself: 'Would this be important information if you were buying a house and the seller didn't tell you?' If yes, it's likely material.
For disclosure questions, remember that 'material facts' are anything that would influence a buyer's decision. Don't overthink - if it's important enough that you'd want to know if buying, it must be disclosed.
Real World Application
How this concept applies in actual real estate practice
A listing agent in Phoenix is preparing a home for market. The owners know the roof was replaced 10 years ago but don't disclose that the previous roof had water damage because it was 'fixed.' During inspection, the new buyer discovers hidden mold in the attic. The seller faces legal liability for failing to disclose this material fact, which could have affected both the buyer's decision and the property's value. This scenario highlights why comprehensive disclosure of all known issues, regardless of when they occurred or whether they were 'repaired,' is essential.
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