In Pennsylvania, which of the following is NOT a required disclosure?
Audio Lesson
Duration: 2:52
Question & Answer
Review the question and all answer choices
Known defects
CORRECT_ANSWER
Lead-based paint (pre-1978 homes)
CORRECT_ANSWER
Property tax amount
CORRECT_ANSWER
Recent deaths in the property
Why is this correct?
Pennsylvania law does not require disclosure of deaths on a property. The state specifically excludes psychological stigmas, including deaths, from mandatory disclosure requirements, making this the correct answer.
Deep Analysis
AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept
Disclosure requirements are fundamental to real estate transactions as they protect both buyers and sellers by ensuring transparency. This question tests your knowledge of Pennsylvania's specific disclosure obligations, which are designed to help buyers make informed decisions. The correct answer is D because Pennsylvania does not require disclosure of deaths on the property. Option A is required because sellers must disclose known defects that could affect property value or desirability. Option B is federally mandated for homes built before 1978 due to health risks. Option C is required because tax information impacts the buyer's financial obligations. This question is challenging because it mixes federal requirements with state-specific laws, requiring candidates to distinguish between mandatory disclosures and those that are optional or prohibited.
Knowledge Background
Essential context and foundational knowledge
Disclosure requirements in real estate transactions vary by state but generally aim to protect buyers by ensuring they have complete information about the property. Federal law mandates disclosure of lead-based paint in homes built before 1978 due to health risks. Pennsylvania's Real Estate Seller Disclosure Law requires sellers to disclose material defects they know about, but specifically excludes deaths, psychological stigmas, and HIV/AIDS status from mandatory disclosure. These exclusions reflect a balance between buyer protection and seller privacy rights.
DREAD: Deaths, Psychological stigmas, HIV status, And other similar disclosures are Not required in Pennsylvania
Remember that DREAD items are Not required disclosures in PA. This helps you identify what doesn't need to be disclosed.
For disclosure questions, remember that material defects must be disclosed, but events that might affect buyer perception (like deaths) are not always required disclosures. Check state-specific laws for exceptions.
Real World Application
How this concept applies in actual real estate practice
A buyer asks a Pennsylvania listing agent about a murder that occurred in the home five years ago. The agent correctly explains that while they cannot discuss this information (as it's not a required disclosure), they can provide the standard seller disclosure form which lists all known material defects. The agent focuses on the property's features and condition rather than the non-disclosable event, maintaining professionalism while adhering to legal requirements.
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