An Idaho residential purchase agreement defines the terms under which ownership of residential property is transferred between the buyer and seller. It outlines the purchase price, closing date, earnest deposit amount, and any contingencies such as inspection requirements.
This document establishes the rights and obligations the parties, minimizing potential disputes during the transaction. Once signed by both parties, it becomes legally enforceable, setting forth the terms and conditions of the purchase.
State Laws
- Title Issues: To ensure a clear transfer of ownership, sellers should disclose any potential issues impacting the property title, including easements, encroachments, zoning violations, and boundary disputes.
- Location and Legal Status Considerations: Sellers are required to disclose whether the property falls within an area of city impact or is potentially subject to annexation. Additionally, they should clarify whether the property currently receives city services or has given consent for annexation.
Required Seller Disclosures
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
For homes built before 1978, sellers must disclose lead-based paint hazards to buyers and include an EPA-approved brochure detailing safety precautions before purchase (42 U.S. Code § 4852d).
Property Disclosure Statement
Sellers must disclose any property defects within 10 days of accepting an offer, as mandated by state guidelines (§ 55-2507, § 55-2508, § 55-2509).
Do Sellers in Idaho Have to Disclose Property Defects?
Yes, sellers in Idaho are required to disclose material defects. In some states, sellers are not obligated to disclose all defects (caveat emptor), placing the responsibility on the buyer to conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify any potential issues. Failing to conduct a proper examination may limit the buyer’s ability to legally cancel the real estate transaction.