What is the purpose of a real estate agent's disclosure of material facts?

The purpose of a real estate agent's disclosure of material facts is fundamentally about ensuring transparency and facilitating informed decision-making by the buyer. When agents disclose material facts, they provide essential information that can significantly impact a buyer’s choice regarding a property, such as any defects, issues, or other vital details about the home or its environment. This transparency helps buyers make educated decisions, reducing the likelihood of future disputes and fostering trust in the transaction.

Disclosures are crucial because they relate to the agent's ethical obligation to communicate honestly and clearly about what they know, allowing buyers to weigh the pros and cons of the property based on complete information. While protecting a buyer's financial interests could be a secondary effect of providing such facts, the primary aim centers on promoting informed choice. Increasing property sales or satisfying personal biases does not align with the ethical responsibilities of a real estate agent; the focus should always be on the buyer's right to know and understand what they are getting into.