You don’t have to disclose this stuff, but here’s why I would

Marty Kramer | Consumer columnist

Sep. 6, 2012

You’re legally obligated to disclose certain things about the house you’re selling … like if it ever flooded or contains lead-based paint or if termites damaged it. Why not also reveal the things you really like about your home, too?

Sure, potential buyers will notice obvious features like skylights and new kitchen appliances, but many of your favorite things about your house may not be evident to strangers just walking through it.

You can create a list of what you’ve enjoyed about your home and share it with your Texas REALTOR®. She may want to highlight some of those things in marketing materials. I’ve also heard of agents who provide the entire list to potential buyers.

If I created such a list, I’d include several features about my neighborhood:

The elementary school is about a quarter mile away
The playground and field at the elementary school are available weekends and evenings
Our driveway is great for basketball
Lots of friendly neighbors
The annual neighborhood block party has been held in the front yard across the street for the past several years
Sometimes, we can catch a glimpse of fireworks shows
We have a quiet street but are about a mile from a grocery store, drug store, convenience store, restaurants, and a gas station.
Several nice hiking trails are only minutes away.

What’s great about your house? Chances are that other people might like your home for some of the same reasons … maybe even enough to make an offer.

More by Marty Kramer Even past the deadline, homebuyer assistance
is available Get moving to qualify for the federal homebuyer tax credit How to know if estimated loan fees will stick Forget the forecast; look out the window

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