<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by johnlbisson:
I purchased a duplex in Florida that was advertised as having a "Bonus Room" by the listing agent. This "Bonus Room" included a signed inventory list by the seller, selling agent, and acknowlegeded by the listing agent. This "Bonus Room" came with bathroom, living room furniture, bed, refrigerator. After purchased, the City informed the buyer that the unit Bonus Room was illegal. This Bonus Room had no inspection by the City and never had a completion certificate, therefore, illegal to occupy. What is your definition of this situation, What is a "Bonus Room" that was advertised as this one was and liability!
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In real estate a bonus room is considered an extra room ie. family room, sitting room, den, enclosed lanai etc. It is commonly an addition to the original home.
Scenario 1: the Seller and both real estate agents are at fault. The Seller for nondisclosure and the 2 real estate agents for not completing a standard building permit investigation which would have uncovered the true facts. Both real estate agents have not exercised full and complete standard of care. If you did not agree to buy the home as-is and with no permit, inspection and certificate of occupany issued, you have claims against the Seller and the agents. Talk to your own agent first and ask him/her how this situation happened and why a building permit check was not completed. In some cases, a home inspection would have revealed some red flags prior to closing if there were substandard conditions.
Scenario 2: from the inventory list you have described, it appears that the so called bonus room may have been used as an rental illegal unit. If you were aware of this prior to purchase and wanted this "unit" anyway for some rental income, you bought yourself the problem.
