If you're selling a home in Jacksonville, Surf City, Hubert, or anywhere in Eastern North Carolina, you'll fill out disclosure forms before you accept an offer. Here's what they are, what they ask, and how to handle them so nothing slows down your sale.
The NC Residential Property and Owners' Association Disclosure Statement
For most residential sales of one to four units, North Carolina law requires sellers to give buyers this form, published by the NC Real Estate Commission. It asks about things like the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, water intrusion, environmental issues, and whether the home is in an owners' association, along with HOA dues and assessments. Some transfers are exempt, such as certain sales between family members or foreclosures, so ask your agent or attorney if you think one applies.
What "No Representation" means
On many questions, North Carolina lets sellers answer "Yes," "No," or "No Representation." No Representation means you aren't making a statement either way. It does not let you hide a problem. If your agent knows of a material fact about the property, your agent still has to disclose it to buyers. My advice: be honest and specific. Buyers trust a clear, complete form, and it protects you later.
The Mineral and Oil and Gas Rights Disclosure Statement
This second NC Real Estate Commission form asks whether mineral, oil, or gas rights have been severed from the property, or whether you plan to sever them. Most homes here have nothing to report, but the form is still required.
Lead-based paint for homes built before 1978
Federal law (EPA and HUD rules) requires sellers of homes built before 1978 to disclose any known lead-based paint or hazards, give buyers the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home," and offer a chance to test.
Flood zone and coastal questions
Near the coast, buyers will ask about flood zones, past flooding, insurance claims, and elevation certificates. Answer the form's questions about water and flooding carefully, and check your flood zone on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. If you have an elevation certificate, have it ready.
When to deliver the forms
Give buyers the disclosures before they make an offer, ideally as soon as the home is listed. If something changes before closing, talk with your agent about updating them.
The bottom line
Fill out the forms fully and honestly, keep your paperwork organized, and lean on your agent and closing attorney with questions. If you're selling on Topsail Island, see my page on how to sell your home in Surf City, NC.
Getting ready to sell? I'm Aaron Dominguez, Broker/Realtor with RE/MAX Elite Realty Group, 2025 RE/MAX Elite Top Listing Agent and a Realtor.com Premier Agent. Get a free home valuation or call or text 919.793.4090.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Your closing attorney can advise on your specific sale.