Answers by Johnny Mitchell

Insurance companies use information about the new buyer when determining insurance rates. Examples include credit score, past insurance claims through the CLUE report, prior policy cancellations or non-renewals, and other factors that vary from homeowner to homeowner. Your insurance premium may be higher or lower based on your individual circumstances, which is one reason insurance companies generally do not allow a policy to be transferred from one homeowner to another.

f you’re not seeing results after a couple of months, it usually comes down to communication, marketing, or pricing. Start by having a direct but friendly conversation with your agent about expectations — weekly updates, clearer feedback, and a defined plan. Ask how open houses are being marketed (signage, social media, MLS alerts, etc.) and request a fresh look at pricing and recent comps. Most issues can be fixed with a reset meeting and a short action plan. If things still don’t improve, you can speak with the broker about switching agents or requesting a release.

In North Carolina, the required Residential Property and Owners' Association Disclosure Statement, Section G, Question 3, is where my clients disclose historic property information. Most good real estate agents will obtain this information and have it readily available for prospective buyers. Having this information available upfront can help speed up the buyer's decision-making process. Contact me if you have any other questions. (919) 622-0271

The suggestions from the other agents are 100% correct. Get all of your paperwork together. Every state has different guidelines regarding what must be disclosed. Here in North Carolina, sellers are not required to disclose any information. However, if they choose to make a disclosure, they must be truthful. They cannot lie, but they are not required to disclose. That said, if either the listing agent or the buyer's agent is aware of a material issue, North Carolina law requires that it be disclosed. In short, gather all of your documentation and contact your buyer's agent to determine what your state requires regarding disclosures. Then decide whether any further action is needed.