California Real Estate Practice Exam

How should a broker respond if asked about the manner of the previous owner's death, if the death was by suicide 18 months ago?

1. Must answer the question honestly

2. Should avoid the question

3. May lie to protect the property's value

4. Should refer the question to the seller

The correct answer is: Must answer the question honestly

It is important for a broker to be truthful and honest when responding to questions from potential buyers. This includes disclosing any information about the previous owner's death, even if it was by suicide. Avoiding the question or lying to protect the property's value can not only harm the broker's credibility, but may also put the buyer at risk of purchasing a property without full knowledge of its history. Referring the question to the seller may also be seen as avoiding the responsibility of providing important information to the buyer. Therefore, the most appropriate response would be to answer the question honestly while remaining respectful and sensitive to the situation.