Expert: Sue Bernstein - 2/11/2004

Question
I am looking for a source where I can learn what the State of California requires in order to bring an older home "up to code" before selling it. I have a Real Estate License but it is in the State of Georgia.
My mother is 85 and has lived in her home for more than 35 years.  She would like to sell and downsize and is being told she is responsible to bring the home up to code before she can sell it.  Is this true?  What does she need to know? Who can help her. Where can she find aditional information?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Deanna,

Your mother does not have to bring her house up to code to sell.  I would suggest you have a good local agent evaluate the house for market and determine how to best market the house in its present condition.  That agent might also have suggestions to help your mother get the best price but she is not required to bring the house to today's code. Anything that your mother is aware of that is not functioning needs to be disclosed to the prospective buyers and she will probably have some retrofitting requirements (smoke detectors, water heater strapping etc.)depending on the city she lives in but that is it.

I hope you find this helpful and please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.

Sue Bernstein
www.SueBernstein.com