Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

If a prospective buyer is interested in an older cottage with a self-installed wood stove, what should they do?

1. Avoid purchasing due to potential issues

2. Include a seller’s warranty for the stove

3. Make the offer conditional upon expert inspection of the stove

4. Include a condition for a Wood Stove Advisory Board inspection

5. Submit an unconditional offer

6. Ask the seller to remove the stove

The correct answer is: Make the offer conditional upon expert inspection of the stove

Making the offer conditional upon expert inspection of the stove is the most prudent course of action when considering the purchase of an older cottage that has a self-installed wood stove. This approach enables the prospective buyer to ensure that the wood stove is safe, compliant with current building codes, and properly installed. An expert inspection can identify any potential hazards or deficiencies that may pose a risk to the buyer's safety or the property's integrity. By choosing this option, the buyer is taking a responsible step to protect their investment by assessing the stove's condition before finalizing the transaction. This cautious measure can help avoid unexpected costs or safety issues later on. Other choices might seem attractive at first glance, but they do not offer the same level of safety and assurance. For instance, asking the seller to provide a warranty or submit an unconditional offer may not address the underlying concerns about the stove's installation and safety. An inspection is the most effective means of obtaining an accurate assessment of the wood stove's condition.