What must a licensee disclose regarding defects in a property?

A licensee is required to disclose any and all defects in a property, regardless of whether they are major or minor, visible, or otherwise recognized by the buyer. This obligation is rooted in the principle of full disclosure, which is essential to fostering transparency and trust in real estate transactions.

By ensuring that all defects are disclosed, the licensee helps to protect potential buyers from unexpected issues that could affect their enjoyment of the property or lead to significant financial burdens down the line. This duty not only adheres to legal requirements in many jurisdictions, including Texas, but it also upholds ethical standards in the real estate profession. Buyers have the right to make informed decisions based on all available information, and undetected defects can lead to severe consequences, including costly repairs or legal disputes after the sale. Thus, comprehensive disclosure serves to mitigate risks and uphold the integrity of the transaction.