SELLERS’ AGENT LIABLE FOR NON-DISCLOSURE

By Kent Berk on July 3rd, 2005 in BLOG, REAL ESTATE LAW

In this case, the firm’s client purchased a home in North Scottsdale. Unbeknownst to her, the home had been used by the sellers to breed and kennel large numbers of dogs over several years. Upon moving into the home, the buyer’s daughter and grandson had severe allergic reactions. They subsequently discovered that the home was used to breed dogs, but that fact was not disclosed before the sale.

Berk Law Group, P.C. filed a lawsuit in Maricopa County, Arizona Superior Court against the sellers and their agent, Century 21. After trial, Judge Peter Reinstein found in favor of the buyer and assessed 95% of the fault to Century 21 for not disclosing the history of the home. The Judge awarded the seller full diminution in value caused by the prior use.