What Should I Disclose When Selling a Home in Bayside, NY?

When you’re selling your home in Bayside, knowing what to disclose can feel confusing — but it doesn’t have to be. New York requires sellers to be transparent about certain conditions, and buyers today expect clarity. Being upfront protects you legally, builds trust, and helps your sale move forward smoothly.

Understanding New York’s Disclosure Requirements

New York State has specific rules on what sellers must disclose, including known defects and certain property conditions. While you’re not required to investigate or inspect for issues, you do need to share what you already know.

A strong disclosure strategy also reassures buyers, especially in areas like Bayside where many older homes — Colonial, Cape, Tudor, and post-war ranch styles — may have long histories or past repairs.

Working with Eric Berman REALTOR® ensures you follow the law while presenting your home accurately and confidently.

Material Defects You Must Disclose

A material defect is any condition that could affect a home's value, safety, or use.
Common examples include:

• Water intrusion or basement flooding

• Roof leaks or structural issues

• Electrical or plumbing problems

• HVAC malfunctions

• Pest or termite damage

• Known foundation cracks

• Environmental hazards (lead-based paint, asbestos in older homes, etc.)

If you’re aware of an issue, it must be disclosed — even if you’ve taken steps to repair it.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure for Older Bayside Homes

Homes built before 1978 require a lead-based paint disclosure by federal law.
This is especially relevant in Bayside, where many charming Colonials and Tudors were built before the 1960s.

You’ll need to:

• Provide the federal lead paint pamphlet

• Disclose known lead-based paint hazards

• Share records or reports, if you have them

Eric Berman REALTOR® ensures you're using the correct, legally required forms.

Past Repairs and Renovations

You don’t need to disclose every cosmetic fix, but you should disclose:

• Structural repairs

• Waterproofing systems

• Major mechanical replacements

• Past insurance claims

• Any contractor-performed repair addressing a previous defect

Buyers value transparency — and properly documented repairs can actually strengthen your position.

Neighborhood or Environmental Factors

In some cases, you may also need to disclose:

• Shared driveways or easements

• Drainage issues on the property

• Nearby noise disturbances if they affect the property

• Conditions impacting your home’s use (e.g., encroachments)

What you can’t do (per Fair Housing laws) is comment on:

• Safety

• Schools

• Demographics

• Crime rates

Those topics fall under prohibited steering, and Eric Berman REALTOR® keeps your listing fully compliant.

Should You Complete the Property Condition Disclosure Statement (PCDS)?

New York gives sellers a choice:

1. Complete the disclosure form, or

2. Provide a $500 credit to the buyer at closing

Most sellers choose the credit to reduce legal risk, but it's worth evaluating both options carefully.

Discussing pros and cons with Eric Berman REALTOR® helps you decide what’s best for your situation.

Being Transparent Protects You

A strong disclosure process reduces the chances of:

• Renegotiation during inspections

• Delays in contract

• Buyer distrust

• Post-closing disputes

In competitive neighborhoods like Bayside — Bay Terrace, Bell Boulevard, Weeks Woodlands, Windsor Oaks — buyers move faster when they feel informed.

Final Thoughts

Being honest and thorough with disclosures isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a smart selling strategy. With the right guidance, you can protect yourself, build buyer confidence, and move through the sale of your Bayside home with fewer surprises.

Eric Berman REALTOR® ensures every step stays compliant and straightforward, helping you avoid pitfalls and keep your sale on track.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t disclose a known issue?
You could face legal or financial consequences later. Get guidance from Eric Berman REALTOR® to protect yourself.

Do I need to mention past water damage if it was fixed?
Yes — past issues must still be disclosed. Discuss the best way to present repairs with Eric Berman REALTOR®.

Should I fill out the PCDS or give the $500 credit?
Most sellers choose the credit, but every case is different. Review the options with Eric Berman REALTOR®.

Do I need to disclose noisy neighbors or local disturbances?
You only disclose factors that directly impact your property. Stay compliant with help from Eric Berman REALTOR®.

Is lead-based paint always a concern in Bayside homes?
Older homes may require disclosures. Learn what applies to your home by contacting Eric Berman REALTOR®.

URL:
https://www.theericbermanteam.com/blog/what-should-i-disclose-when-selling-a-home-in-bayside-ny

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com