Resale Homes and the Importance of Disclosures in Florida

Florida Resale Homes & Disclosures: What Buyers Should Know

Hi there! I’m Karen Merola with SWFLifestyles, and if you’re buying a resale home in Bonita Springs or Southwest Florida, it’s important to understand the disclosures you’re entitled to as a buyer—and what questions you should still be asking.

📝 What Are Disclosures, Anyway?

Disclosures are legally required documents that sellers provide to inform buyers about the condition of a home and any known material defects. This transparency is essential in protecting both buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction.

In Florida, the primary disclosure document is called the Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, though there isn’t a standard statewide form—it can vary by agent or brokerage.

Key Disclosures to Look For in Florida

1. Property Condition:
   Sellers must disclose any known issues with the home’s structure, systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), roof, or appliances.

2. Water Intrusion & Mold:
   Given Florida’s humidity and storm activity, sellers must disclose any history of water damage, roof leaks, or mold remediation.

3. Pest Problems or Termite Treatment:
   Past or present pest issues must be shared, including whether the home has been tented or treated.

4. Permits & Renovations:
   If there were any additions, repairs, or remodels, sellers should disclose whether permits were pulled and properly closed.

5. HOA Information:
   If the home is in a community with a homeowners’ association, buyers must receive a copy of the rules, budget, and fees.

🛢️ What About Mineral Rights?

Florida doesn’t require a specific disclosure regarding mineral or subsurface rights, but here’s what you should know:

• In rare cases, mineral rights may have been severed from the property and retained by a previous owner or developer.

• If mineral rights are excluded, the owner of those rights could, in theory, access them—though this is extremely uncommon in Florida residential areas.

• To be safe, ask your title company or real estate attorney to verify whether the sale includes mineral rights.

It’s not something most buyers in Florida need to worry about—but it’s good to be informed.

Buying a resale home in Florida means enjoying charm, mature landscaping, and often a prime location—but it also means knowing what you’re buying into. As your local real estate expert, I help you navigate disclosures, due diligence, and negotiations to make sure your home purchase is smooth, secure, and informed.

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Bonita Springs, I’d love to guide you through every step.

📩 Let’s connect!
— Karen Merola | SWFLifestyles