Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

When a buyer is considering purchasing a cottage and requests information about water quality testing, what should the buyer do according to best practices?

1. Conduct a visual inspection of the well

2. Rely on the previous water quality test

3. Retest the water after purchase

4. Hire a certified inspector to test the water

5. Trust the seller's report without further action

6. Include a condition in the offer for water testing

The correct answer is: Include a condition in the offer for water testing

Including a condition in the offer for water testing is an excellent practice when a buyer is considering the purchase of a cottage. This approach ensures that the buyer is protected and has the opportunity to confirm the safety and quality of the water supply before finalizing the purchase. Water quality can significantly impact the usability of the cottage and the health of occupants; therefore, due diligence in this area is crucial. By making the offer contingent on successful water testing, the buyer can stipulate that they need to receive satisfactory results from a water quality test conducted by a certified inspector. This allows the buyer to make an informed decision and negotiate further if results are unsatisfactory. It also demonstrates that the buyer is taking a proactive stance in protecting their investment and well-being. The alternative options do not provide the same level of assurance. Relying on previous water quality tests may leave the buyer unaware of any changes or issues that could have arisen since the last test. Conducting merely a visual inspection of the well does not offer a comprehensive assessment of water safety and quality. Retesting the water after purchase places the buyer in a precarious situation where they might already be committed to the property before discovering potential hazards. Trusting the seller's report without further action is risky, as it