Whether you are buying or selling a home, here are the most important things you should tell or ask about a property.  As for who should disclose the information, that depends on the laws in your state.  But usually, only you (the seller) and your agent can divulge details about your home, especially the ones that would affect the value or desirability of your property.

This might include: homeowners association dues; whether or not work done on the house meets local building codes and permits requirements; the presence of any neighborhood nuisances or noises which a prospective buyer might not notice, such as a dog that barks every night or poor TV reception; any death within three years on the property; and any restrictions on the use of the property, such as zoning ordinances or association rules.

It is wise to check your state’s disclosure rules prior to a home purchase.  You don’t want to end up in the court just because of disclosure issues, which are avoidable if you only learn the rules.  So until you’ve learned about them, it is safe to keep your lips sealed.