How should a real estate agent handle old property treatment disclosures?

Disclosing and informing buyers about old property treatment disclosures is critical in real estate transactions. This practice is essential because it fosters transparency and trust between parties involved. Buyers have the right to know about any prior treatment of the property, especially concerning issues like pest infestations or the use of hazardous materials.

By being upfront about these disclosures, the real estate agent not only adheres to legal requirements but also protects the interests of both the seller and the buyer. This approach helps buyers make informed decisions and can prevent potential legal disputes in the future. Ensuring that full disclosure is maintained also upholds the integrity of the real estate profession, reinforcing the agent's reputation as a trustworthy source of information.

The other options do not align with ethical practices in real estate. Negotiating on behalf of the seller without addressing disclosures may lead to conflicts of interest, while advising sellers to hide information is unethical and illegal. Consulting a legal advisor may be necessary in some situations, but it doesn't take the primary responsibility of disclosure away from the agent. The primary focus should be on transparency with buyers regarding any past treatments of the property.