Be careful, purchaser.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) The buyer must exercise caution and diligence before purchasing — the law places the burden of investigation on the purchaser.

Where this applies

• A first-time home buyer fails to get an inspection before purchasing and discovers major foundation problems — the law says the burden of diligence was on the buyer.
• A man buys a used tractor without checking for liens and later finds the bank has a claim on it — caveat emptor, the buyer should have investigated.
• A collector purchases what is advertised as an antique clock without verifying its authenticity, and it turns out to be a reproduction — the buyer bears the risk of not being careful.