Environmental

In New York, disclosure of a property's 'stigma' (such as a prior murder or suicide on the premises) is generally:

ARequired by New York law for all residential sales
BNot required by statute, but agents should respond honestly if directly asked by a buyer✓ Correct
CRequired only for properties where the event occurred within 5 years
DRequired only for commercial properties

Explanation

New York Real Property Law section 443-a provides that a seller or agent is not required to disclose that a property was the site of a death, felony, or suicide — nor is such information considered a material defect. However, if a buyer directly and specifically asks about such an event, agents should respond honestly (not lie), as deceptive responses could expose them to liability.

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