[troutman]

http://calgaryrealestatereview.com/2010/07/06/

With the recent listing and sale of the Dalhousie home that was the site of the grisly murder/suicide, some questions regarding disclosure and “stigmatized” properties may arise. Remember, stigmas are not to be confused with material latent defects which must always be disclosed. For the record, the Dalhousie home was publicly marketed as needing to disclose important information to any potential buyer. (The listing contained: “Please call listing agent (or have your agent contact the listing agent) for property disclosure details.”)

The following article from RECA will help shed more light on stigmatized properties and the role you as a buyer need to play.

Alberta legislation does not define stigmatized properties. It also does not require real estate industry members to disclose events which some may consider as stigmas, unless asked about them.

Buying consumers are advised to carefully consider the areas of concern they have, discuss them with their industry members and ensure the necessary inquiries are made to avoid purchasing a property they will not feel comfortable living in. Sellers should consider the consequences of disclosure compared with no disclosure and seek legal counsel.