Final answer:
If a real estate broker fails to disclose a known defect, such as a roof leak, the buyer may be able to recover damages from the broker. Buyers should conduct due diligence and seek legal advice if they believe they have been misled.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this scenario, the owner of the single-family residence listed the property for sale with a real estate broker. The owner informed the broker of a roof leak but the broker did not inform the buyer. If the buyer later discovers the roof leak after purchasing the property, they may be able to recover damages from the broker for failing to disclose this information. This is because the broker had a duty to disclose any known defects or material facts about the property to the buyer.
However, the buyer's ability to recover damages may also depend on other factors, such as whether the buyer conducted a proper inspection of the property or signed any agreements that waive the broker's liability for defects. It is important for buyers to conduct due diligence and seek legal advice if they believe they have been misled or not properly informed about a property's condition.