New Jersey Senate Bill S1038

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Establishes certain requirements if purchasing and reselling same single-family home within one year of receiving certificate of occupancy.

Impact

The bill aims to establish clearer guidelines and responsibilities for short-term resellers, making them accountable for any issues arising from renovations conducted prior to the sale. By requiring sellers to hold a percentage of the sale price in escrow, the legislation seeks to bolster consumer protection in the housing market, particularly in cases where the seller may not have been the original occupant or where substantial modifications have been made. This could potentially improve the overall trust in real estate transactions involving such resellers.

Summary

Senate Bill 1038 introduces regulations aimed at short-term resellers of single-family homes, specifically those who purchase a home and resell it within one year of obtaining a certificate of occupancy. The bill mandates that short-term resellers retain funds in escrow following the sale to safeguard against potential damages related to renovations that do not comply with the State Uniform Construction Code. This retention of funds is intended to ensure that buyers are financially protected against substandard work or misleading claims regarding the condition of the home.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 1038 may include concerns regarding the potential burden on resellers, particularly small home flippers who may find compliance with these escrow requirements challenging. Additionally, there may be discussions about the implications of enforcing standards under the State Uniform Construction Code, especially among those in the construction and renovation sectors who might see the bill as an encumbrance on their business operations. The bill's enforcement details and the adequacy of penalties for breaches of the proposed regulations may also generate debate.