Expert: Karyn Foley - 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
Dear Deanna:
  Who told your Mother that she is responsible for bringing her house up to code?  Find out, and ask that person what they meant.
  There are disclosure documents that your real estate agent can help you and your Mother fill out, and your agent will also explain some of the retrofitting items that are required by the state of California (regarding the double strapping of hot water heater) and items required by the city and/or county in which the house is located.  These differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so you should ask an agent.  Or, you can call the local board of realtors where the house is located.  If you do not know the name and telephone number of the local board, call one of the large real estate companies in town and ask them.
  A good agent can be a tremendous help to you in helping you understand what needs to be done.  Also, they are a wonderful guide through the process of getting the home ready to sell, and going through the sale period.
  When a Buyer makes the purchase, the Buyer, by custom, hires a home inspector who will prepare a list for the Buyer with items that should be done in the best interest of health and safety.  These items can be done prior to the close of escrow, if requested by the Buyer, or credit given to the Buyer who can then make the repairs by their own handyman or contractor when the Buyer moves in.
  Go through some of the houses in your Mother's neighborhood and see what the competition looks like.  It may be worth your while to paint and do some handy work prior to putting it on the market.  You can also get referrals from real estate agents for names of home inspectors.  You may consider hiring one yourself to see what items should be attended to by your Mother prior to putting the house up for sale.  
  Most buyers will ask for a licensed termite and pest control company to make an inspection as well.  This inspector looks for wood destroying pests such as termites, and for fungus or dry rot that can erode the integrity of the structure of the home.  These repairs are usually necessary prior to the close of escrow as well.
  Please, contact several agents.  California is a state where people sue over real estate, so it is in everyone's best interest to hire a professional.
  Good luck; hope this help.  Let me know if you have any more questions.
KARYN FOLEY