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Legal Guide7 min read

Baltimore Home Seller Disclosure Requirements (2026)

Published October 2, 2025

Maryland Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement

Maryland Real Property Code §10-702 requires sellers to complete a Maryland Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement and provide it to buyers. Buyers have 5 days after receipt to rescind the contract.

Two options:

  • Disclosure: Seller discloses known material defects in detail
  • Disclaimer: Seller disclaims knowledge and sells "as-is" — but this does NOT protect against known defects that were concealed
  • The form covers:

  • Structural elements (roof, foundation, walls)
  • Systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
  • Water source and sewage
  • Environmental hazards (lead, asbestos, radon, underground tanks)
  • Flood zone status
  • Legal matters (HOA, easements, zoning)
  • Lead Paint — Critical in Baltimore

    Baltimore has some of the nation's most extensive lead paint laws. Baltimore City has a mandatory lead paint inspection and certification program. State law requires:

  • Federal lead paint disclosure (pre-1978)
  • Maryland Acknowledgment of Lead Paint form
  • Baltimore City properties in high-risk categories may require additional inspections. This is especially important for homes built before 1950.

    Maryland Transfer Taxes

    Maryland has both a state transfer tax and a county transfer tax:

  • State transfer tax: 0.5% of sale price
  • Baltimore County transfer tax: 1.5% of sale price
  • Baltimore City transfer tax: 1.5% of sale price
  • On a $340,000 Baltimore County sale: state $1,700 + county $5,100 = $6,800 combined. Split 50/50 between buyer and seller by custom (each pays half), so seller pays approximately $3,400.

    No Attorney Requirement (But Standard Practice)

    Maryland does not legally require a real estate attorney. However, attorney closings are standard in the Baltimore market.

    Download Maryland disclosure forms and find flat fee Bright MLS services.

    Ready to sell FSBO in Baltimore?

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