Buying a home is one of the largest and most memorable purchases individuals will make in their lifetimes. At the same time, many have heard the Latin phrase caveat emptor—”let the buyer beware”—a concept that provides no comfort to someone whose new home has significant material defects. The result is an endless “money pit” of costly repairs.

Fortunately for New Jersey residents, current state law takes a more ethical approach to business dealings with one another. Here, our courts allow each of us to rely on representations made by others when purchasing a property. This state takes one step further, stipulating that those who claim to have superior knowledge by virtue of their training and experience are held accountable for that claim. Furthermore, the consequences of failing to comply with that enhanced obligation is correspondingly increased.