What are "disclosures" in real estate?

Disclosures in real estate refer to the required notifications that sellers must provide to buyers regarding any potential issues or defects associated with a property. This can include information about physical defects, environmental hazards, or other factors that could affect the property’s value or the buyer's decision to purchase. The purpose of these disclosures is to protect buyers by ensuring they are fully informed about the condition of the property they are considering.

In many jurisdictions, including Texas, there are specific laws that dictate what must be disclosed, and failure to provide these disclosures can lead to legal repercussions for the seller. This requirement for transparency is critical in real estate transactions, as it helps build trust between buyers and sellers and can prevent disputes after the sale has been completed.

Other options do not encompass the full scope of what disclosures entail in the context of real estate transactions. Legal documents required for mortgage approval, public listings of properties for sale, and descriptions of local market conditions serve different purposes and do not directly relate to the disclosures that inform buyers about potential property defects or issues.