Calif. Court Says Realtors' Exculpatory Clauses Not Binding

SAN DIEGO - A California appellate court ruled for homebuyers in a suit against a real estate broker on Jan. 24, holding that standard contract clauses absolving the agents and brokers of any liability do not bar claims of intentional misrepresentation. Manderville v. PCG&S Group Inc., et al., No. D047285 (Calif. Ct. App., 4th Dist.).

In ruling for the buyers on their claim for intentional misrepresentation, California's 4th Appellate District did not rule on their claim for negligent misrepresentation and suppression of facts, saying those claims were not included in the motion for summary judgment.

The claims brought by …