: If selling "as-is" without an inspection, you still have a legal obligation to disclose known safety or value issues to avoid future lawsuits. 4. Baltimore-Specific Programs
: You must verify your legal square footage and provide proof of current tax status.
: If your property is part of a homeowners association, you must request this package (it often takes 2–3 weeks to receive).
: Many older Baltimore rowhomes have "ground rent." You must provide documentation of these payments or details for the buyer to buy it out. 3. Specialized Paperwork
Selling a house in Baltimore requires specific legal and financial documentation to ensure a valid transfer of ownership. Whether you are selling to a cash buyer, a family member, or on the open market, the following "paper" or documentation is required by Maryland law and local Baltimore regulations.
: This is the primary document proving your ownership. When recording a new deed in Baltimore, it must include a Certificate of Preparation signed by the lawyer or party who drafted it, and it must be signed before a notary public .
: If your property has title issues (liens, easements, or ownership disputes), you must resolve these through a title search and settlement before a traditional sale can proceed.
: You may need to apply for a lien certificate to prove there are no unpaid municipal bills or taxes. In Baltimore, unpaid real property taxes can lead to the property being auctioned at an annual tax sale .
