Expert: Dick Dennis - 3/26/2009

Question
Purchased a home in California 3 years ago. Seller was a Lic. Builder/Contractor who lied on the real estate disclosures, we are now facing County ordinance/permit violations on a structure that was on the property. Real Estate agents were involved during the sale.County demands we remove at our cost the building or they will take further action. Also not disclosed was the harassing neighbor, I've had to obtain a restraining order since 30 days after our move in date, we continue to be harassed on a continuous basis previous owner also had issues yet never filed any order. please advise

Answer
As far as the harassing neighbor is concerned, Lydia, there is nothing in the seller's disclosure that requires him to inform you about that. It's one of those neighborhood things that would require you to do your own investigation.

If the seller lied on the disclosure in the process of selling the property to you, you need to consult with a REAL ESTATE attorney. I would recommend you do that right away as you might be up against a statute of limitations. The attorney will bring into the case all that he/she feels should be accountable to you. I wish you well.

Dick Dennis
dixiedee13@aol.com