If a property has deficiencies that need to be remedied, who is responsible for addressing these issues?

In real estate transactions, it is generally the seller's responsibility to address any deficiencies or issues with the property. This principle is rooted in the expectation that sellers must disclose known issues and that they are accountable for the property’s condition at the time of sale. When a property is marketed, the seller is typically required to remedy any deficiencies before or during the closing of the transaction to ensure that it meets certain standards or is in compliance with local laws and regulations.

Buyers can negotiate for repairs or concessions, but the obligation to fix issues primarily lies with the seller, who is incentivized to make the property appealing in order to facilitate a successful sale. Therefore, when deficiencies are identified, the seller should address them either through repairs or concessions during negotiations prior to closing.

The other participants in the transaction, such as the buyer, listing agent, or title company, play different roles and do not bear the primary responsibility for addressing property deficiencies. The buyer may request repairs or adjustments in the purchase agreement, but it is not their duty to fix problems with the property. The listing agent assists with the sales process and negotiations, but they act on behalf of the seller. The title company's role focuses on ensuring clear ownership and handling matters related to the title rather than