Estate Sale Liability Concerns

Summary

In Maryland, personal representatives and realtors must disclose known material defects when selling estate property as is. Failure to disclose can lead to liability. Court orders do not exempt this duty. Heirs may also be liable if they knowingly withhold defect information. Personal representatives, even without a bond, are accountable for fiduciary duties. If the personal representative is an attorney, their liability insurance may cover claims, and their license could be at risk for breaches. Consulting a local attorney is advisable for specific concerns.

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What if the court ordered the sale of the house and the judge also knew about material defects?
In Maryland, if the court orders the sale of a house, the personal representative must still disclose known material defects. The judge's awareness doesn't exempt the representative from this duty. Key points to consider:
- Disclosure obligations remain despite court orders.
- Liability depends on the representative's knowledge and intent.
If you need more detailed advice, consulting with a local attorney might be beneficial.
So, the personal representative cannot claim innocence simply because a judge ordered the sale?
That's correct. In Maryland, the personal representative cannot claim innocence just because a judge ordered the sale. They are still obligated to disclose known material defects regardless of the court's order. If you'd like further assistance, consulting with a local attorney could provide more detailed guidance.
Can the realtor also be held liable if he knows about the material defects?
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In Maryland, a realtor can be held liable if they knowingly fail to disclose material defects. Key points include:
- Realtors have a duty to disclose known defects.
- Liability depends on their knowledge and intent.
- "As is" clauses don't protect intentional nondisclosure.
If you need further assistance, consulting with a local attorney might be beneficial.
In such a case, can an heir sue the personal representative for mismanagement of the estate?
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In Maryland, an heir can potentially sue the personal representative for mismanagement of the estate. Key points to consider:
- The personal representative has a fiduciary duty to manage the estate prudently.
- Mismanagement claims may arise if they fail to disclose material defects knowingly.
- Legal advice may be needed for detailed guidance.
What if the personal representative does not have a bond?
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In Maryland, if a personal representative does not have a bond, it could limit the financial protection for the estate's beneficiaries. However, they are still responsible for their fiduciary duties. It's advisable for beneficiaries to consult with an attorney if there are concerns about estate management.
What if the judge appointed the PR and said she did not need a bond?
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In Maryland, even if a judge appoints a personal representative (PR) without the requirement for a bond, the PR is still accountable for their fiduciary duties. Lack of a bond does not exempt them from liability for mismanagement or nondisclosure of material defects. Consulting with an attorney for specific concerns is advisable.
What if the PR is an attorney? Would their liability insurance cover any suits? Would their license be in jeopardy?
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In Maryland, if a personal representative (PR) is an attorney, their professional liability insurance may cover claims related to estate mismanagement, depending on the policy terms. Their license could be at risk if they breach ethical or professional duties. Consulting a local attorney for specific details would be beneficial.
Who is ultimately responsible if the PR knows of material problems and instructs the realtor to not disclose material problems with the house in the sale listing?
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In Maryland, both the personal representative (PR) and the realtor can be held liable if they knowingly fail to disclose material defects. Key points include:
- The PR has a fiduciary duty to disclose known defects.
- Realtors also have a legal duty to disclose.
- Liability is based on knowledge and intent.
If you want more detailed advice, it might be helpful to consult with a local attorney.
Can an heir be held liable if he also knows about material defects but does not reveal then to a postetial buyer who asks?
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In Maryland, an heir may be held liable if they knowingly fail to disclose material defects to a potential buyer. Key points include:
- Liability depends on the heir's knowledge and intent.
- Maryland law requires disclosure of known latent defects.
- Heirs should be cautious and consider legal advice for estate matters.