Forms You'll See
Buying or selling a home in New York comes with a few required forms. None of them commit you to anything by themselves. They make sure you know who represents whom and what you're buying. Your agent will hand you the current version of each at the right time; here's what to expect.
New York State Disclosure Form for Buyer and Seller (Agency Disclosure)
Explains who a real estate agent works for: the seller, the buyer, or (with everyone's written consent) both. Your agent must give it to you at your first substantive conversation about a property, and you'll be asked to sign that you received it. Signing it is an acknowledgment, not a contract.
Required by NY Real Property Law §443.
NYS Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form
Summarizes your rights under fair housing laws and how to file a complaint. Agents give it to buyers, sellers, renters and landlords at first substantive contact.
Property Condition Disclosure Statement
A questionnaire the seller fills out about the home: the roof, water and septic, flooding history, known defects and more. Most sellers of one- to four-family homes must provide it to the buyer before a purchase contract is signed. Buyers should still get their own home inspection.
Required by NY Real Property Law Article 14.
Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
For homes built before 1978, federal law requires the seller to disclose any known lead-based paint, give the buyer the EPA pamphlet Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home, and allow the buyer up to 10 days to test for lead.
More from the U.S. EPA.
Also Worth Knowing
This page is general information, not legal advice. Your attorney can explain how any form applies to your transaction.