What Are the “Must-Disclose” Items When Selling Your Sacramento Home in 2026?

By Nancy Adinolfe

Nancy Adinolfe is a top-producing RE/MAX real estate agent who has served California clients since 2018. A member of the RE/MAX Master Club, she provides expert guidance to buyers, sellers, and families throughout Sacramento, Elk Grove, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, and surrounding communities.

What are you actually required to disclose when selling your home in 2026? It is one of those things that is easy to overlook, but skipping it can cause big headaches after closing.

I worked with a seller last year who was not sure if they needed to mention stains and leaks on the roof. They had no idea that leaving it out could create real problems. By being upfront and transparent, we sold the house smoothly with no issues.

I want to share the key disclosures with you so your sale can go just as smoothly.

1. Material defects. This can be anything that can affect the value of your home or the safety of the people living in it. Examples include foundation problems, electrical or plumbing issues, and water leaks. A good rule of thumb is that if it could influence a buyer’s decision, it should be disclosed. Being honest about these things upfront can save a lot of stress later and help make your closing smooth.

2. Renovations and repairs history. It is also important to share any renovations or repairs you have done, even if they were completed by licensed contractors. Letting buyers know what has been worked on shows transparency and builds trust. Buyers appreciate knowing the full story of a home, and it helps them see that you are a responsible seller who is willing to show everything about the house.

3. Environmental hazards. These include asbestos, popcorn ceilings, mold, and lead paint, which are more common in older homes. In 2026, buyers are doing very thorough inspections, and sometimes these inspections include environmental checks. Talking with a real estate expert can help make sure you cover all necessary disclosures and keep everything legal and above board.

4. Probate properties. If your home is part of a probate sale, the disclosure process is a little different. Probate happens when a property is being sold as part of settling someone’s estate, often after they’ve passed away. Some sellers have never lived in the house or are handling it from another state. In these cases, there should be a one-page disclosure form with supporting documents covering the legal requirements.

Working with someone experienced in probate sales makes sure everything is done correctly. Being transparent here builds trust, protects you legally, and helps the sale go smoothly.

Disclosing everything protects you legally and makes the sale smoother for everyone. Buyers feel confident and trust you as a seller, which helps prevent problems after closing. If you have questions about disclosures or the selling process, just reach out to me at (916) 841-3800. I’d be happy to help you navigate your home sale and make sure everything is handled properly.