In terms of seller disclosures, how has the expectation of buyers changed over the years?

The expectation of buyers has significantly evolved, and they are now expected to be more proactive in their investigations. This shift is largely due to the increasing complexity of real estate transactions and an expanded awareness of potential issues that can arise with properties. Over time, buyers have recognized that relying solely on seller disclosures may not give them a complete picture of a property's condition or history.

Many states have implemented laws that require sellers to disclose certain material defects, but these disclosures can vary widely and may not cover every issue. As a result, buyers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence, which includes hiring professional inspectors, researching property history, and obtaining relevant information about any potential problems that may not be disclosed by the seller. This proactive approach helps buyers make informed decisions and reduces the risk of unexpected surprises after the purchase.

The other options do not reflect the current landscape of real estate transactions. The decline in reliance on seller disclosures (as indicated in option A) and the assumption that all properties are flawless (as mentioned in option C) would undermine the integrity of the buying process. Additionally, relying solely on word of mouth (as suggested in option D) does not provide a thorough understanding of the property and its condition. Thus, being proactive is essential in today's real estate