Subject: The Tennessean
From: "Merilee:::Kern Communications" <[email-masked]>
To: <[email-masked]>
Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:36:29 -0700

http://search.tennessean.com/sp?eId=100&gcId=57856643&rNum=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tennessean.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2008810170346&siteIdType=2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sellers need to tell and buyers need to know home's issues
FROM STAFF REPORTS . October 17, 2008

When TV investigative reporters do Sweeps Week investigations of hotel cleanliness, they often use black lights for dramatic effect and to reveal unaddressed stains, such as bodily fluids.

A homebuyer needs no unnecessary drama, but using a black light while inspecting a home is a good idea as part of a thorough inspection and full disclosure, according to Robert Jenson, CEO of luxury Las Vegas realty The Jenson Group at RE/MAX Central.

Is the home repaired from prior water damage? Has there ever been a termite infestation? No matter what the issue, the seller should disclose it. Not doing so when you should have can have serious legal consequences that vary from state to state.
Jenson offers the following list of real estate disclosure must-knows.

Inspect everything: After your offer is accepted, set up a home inspection through a reputable inspector. It's not uncommon to find problems, including roof deficiencies, leaky plumbing and electrical concerns. If you negotiate repairs as part of the purchase, ask for a "walk through" before finalizing the paperwork to assure all issues are resolved to your satisfaction.

Examine insurance claims: Buyers should contact their insurance representative and give them the property address. They will run a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (C.L.U.E) report, which will uncover any previous issues or claims on the property.

Check flood plains: Another question buyers should ask their insurance representative is if the home is potentially in a flood plain, which can also affect the insurance premium.

Know the soils: Depending on where you live, a soils test might be necessary, or it may be prudent to procure a copy of the builder's original soils report, which gives understanding of earth conditions affecting a building.

Check for code violations, un-permitted work: Homes that have been remodeled or have additions are more susceptible to potential code violations, which can pose a variety of safety hazards and put you at risk of legal liabilities. A good home inspector will catch such violations. Also, is the square footage in the county tax record different than the advertised square footage? If so, find out why.

Black-light carpet to uncover hidden issues: Use a black light in the evening to assess the home's carpet to uncover hidden pet waste and other questionable stains, including blood and other body fluids.