What must be disclosed by sellers regarding occupancy in the past, according to Illinois law?

In Illinois law, sellers are required to disclose whether they occupied the property in the last year because this information is pertinent to potential buyers. It provides insight into the property's recent use and current condition. When sellers disclose their occupancy status, they help buyers understand the likelihood of issues related to maintenance, wear and tear from recent habitation, and any potential concerns that could arise from vacant versus occupied properties.

Understanding occupancy history can also impact a buyer's perception of a property's livability and desirability. If a property has been vacant for an extended period, potential buyers may have concerns about deterioration or neglect. Therefore, having this information available allows buyers to make more informed decisions.

While a seller's marital status, previous occupants, and health issues of past occupants may be relevant in certain contexts, they do not directly relate to the property's condition or status in the same way that current occupancy does. Thus, the focus of the law is on occupancy in the past year to ensure transparency regarding the property's recent residential experience.