March 30, 2009 9:00 pm

Flyer Accuracy

It's the unwritten rule that if a home is for sale, it's advertised with the use of flyers. And in a flyer, you'll see some of the basics: square footage, bedrooms, bathrooms, and price.

Sometimes you'll see other language such as "New Plumbing" or "All Appliances Stay." That's great if true, but the seller and buyer should each verify this.

The flyer says "All Appliances Stay," but all of them? Really? What if the listing agent made a mistake and the seller didn't catch it? The buyer can insure this buy specifying individual appliances in an offer. Without that, there's not a guarantee the new Energy Star washer and dryer set will remain within the home.

Recently, I helped some buyers find their first home. The flyer advertised "New Plumbing." But when a home inspection was conducted, it was revealed that the new plumbing was done by the homeowner himself and not permitted by the county. When everything was settled, the buyers bought the home but only after the seller paid a licensed plumber to re-work the entire system, permit and all. The buyers had great leverage because they had, in hand, the flyer stating new plumbing.

If you're a seller and you're advertising your home with flyers (99% of you), make sure the information is accurate. If you're a buyer and you like what the flyer says, make sure you protect yourself by specifically identifying what you want.