Chapter 7: Mastering Disclosure Packages & Reports
When your buyer shows real interest in a property, that's your cue to request the disclosure package. In competitive markets, these packages aren't just a formality — they're the roadmap to understanding a home inside and out.
What You'll Master
Contractor's Inspections: Learn to mark up reports, distinguish urgent repairs from long-term fixes, and translate technical language into actionable insights.
Pest & Termite Inspections: Understand what these reports really reveal beyond critters, including water intrusion and structural concerns.
Specialized Reports: Navigate sewer line inspections, drainage reports, roof evaluations, and structural assessments with confidence.
Preliminary Title Report: Know how to read and explain taxes, liens, condo documents, and legal descriptions that impact the transaction.
Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD): Identify fire zones, floodplains, earthquake risks, and other factors that influence buyer decisions.
Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS): Help clients focus on issues that directly affect property value while understanding seller liability.
What to Skip: Learn which boilerplate documents require only a skim versus deep analysis.
The disclosure package is like a foreign language to most buyers. Your job is to translate it.
Want the complete guide? The full Chapter 7 includes Patty's report markup system, client communication scripts for discussing inspection issues, her framework for prioritizing repairs, and real examples of navigating disclosure red flags with confidence.