Buying a house,realtor turned water on & carpet is now growing mold. It is a bank repo home. Help!?

Question

Hi, we are in the process of buying a home (a bank repo),everything was fine but since it was winterized the realtors husband offered to go in and dewinterize it and check for leaks and all that.He went in on Friday and the sump pump was bad in the basement and there were a few leaks he found. So he told us that we needed a new sump pump and about the leaks and to get a plumber out.Today,4 days later, I went to the house with a plumber and the carpet in the basement is full of green mold! It was fine all the times we were there before but today,wow,it was bad.

So my ? is it is being sold as an "as is" home but the final papers have not been signed , we have not closed.They were the only ones that worked on the water and now we have major mold. The guy did this as a favor because the realtor is a friend but now the basement needs torn apart.Who is responsible and can I have anything done about it? We were buying it "as is" but this was not the way it was until they turned the water on

Answer 1

Just because it is being sold "As Is" does not mean anything really. I have made offers on As Is houses, and gotten the banks to take low ball offers due to repairs. Read the papers, banks are dealing with record numbers of foreclosed properties. If there is a problem with the house, then bring it up. If you are not satisfied with the results, there are literally hundreds of other bank owned properties out there to look at.

Answer 2

If he went in there and did repairs with a certified plumber, the plumber's liability insurance should pay for part of the damages.  The Realtor also should have insurance for damages to buildings she has listed.

If I were you-  I would not close on this house until some serious negotiations take place with the Realtor and her husband.

This house could have some "hidden vices" and you may end up paying a lot more for it in the long run.

Good luck

Answer 3

prior to buying this home, have the inspectors give you a full assessment.  you DO NOT have to purchase.  speak with your attorney & agent.

Answer 4

IT is being so "As is" and that is how you must take it if you want the house.  You have the option of not signing the paperwork, but if you do you will be the only who is responsible for any damages.