Who is responsible for making sure local laws regarding disclosures are followed?

The correct answer is that the real estate agent representing the property is responsible for ensuring that local laws regarding disclosures are followed. This responsibility stems from the agent's role in facilitating the transaction and their professional obligation to adhere to legal requirements.

Real estate agents have a fiduciary duty to their clients, which includes understanding and complying with local, state, and federal laws applicable to property transactions. These laws often require specific disclosures about the property’s condition, past issues, or other pertinent factors that may affect a buyer's decision. The agent acts on behalf of the seller in this context and must ensure that all necessary disclosures are properly made to avoid legal consequences and to foster trust in the transaction.

While the buyer's agent may assist in highlighting relevant disclosures for the buyer, their primary responsibility is to represent the buyer's interests. The seller is obligated to provide information about the property, but the agent is the one legally responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the transaction comply with disclosure laws. The real estate board, while it oversees the licensure of agents and may enforce rules, does not take on the responsibility for each individual transaction's adherence to local laws.