What is the traditional rule concerning seller liability for property condition?

The traditional rule regarding seller liability for property condition is often encapsulated in the concept of "buyer beware," also known as caveat emptor. This principle places the responsibility on the buyer to thoroughly investigate and inspect a property before completing a purchase. Under this doctrine, sellers are generally not liable for defects in the property that the buyer could have discovered through reasonable diligence.

In many jurisdictions, this means that the seller is not obligated to disclose all defects or issues unless specifically asked or if there is an active misrepresentation. Buyers are expected to do their homework and ascertain the condition of the property, often through home inspections or other forms of due diligence.

While there may be exceptions to this rule, such as in cases of fraud or hidden defects known to the seller, the overarching principle remains that buyers must take care in their evaluations and cannot rely solely on the seller for information about the property's condition. This understanding is crucial for both parties during real estate transactions, shaping the expectations around inspections and disclosures.