Leatherwood, Inc. v. Baker

The controversy in this case revolves around Terry K. and Laura A. Baker's purchase of used residential property, which later was discovered to have significant structural damage. Leatherwood, Inc., d/b/a Coldwell Banker First Ozark Realty, appeals from a judgment based on a jury verdict awarding the Bakers $135,828.40 in compensatory damages and $75,000 in punitive damages. Leatherwood contends that the trial court erred in submitting this case to the jury. We agree, and we reverse and remand.

In 1987, Fred and Laura Hovater, the sellers of this property, who are not parties to this suit,…