Selling A Vacant Home? Hire An Agent Who Understands The Extra Challenge

Life happens and sometimes a home seller has to move out of a home before it is sold. On occasion there are even circumstances that would lead me to suggest that they move out early to facilitate the sale. But that's not what I'm talking about here.

I'm talking about the fact that vacant homes are homes that present their own unique challenges since there is no one in them to notice if a pipe bursts, the newspapers pile up or the yard looks untended. Many home sellers who, for any number of reasons, end up having to vacate a property during the marketing period, seem to feel it is no different than going away on vacation for a couple of weeks. Everything will be ok, right?

The law of unintended consequences is always lurking, waiting for just this combination of circumstances. And let me point out something about human nature. While your neighbors may be willing to bring in your mail or water your plants while you are on vacation, and will almost certainly call the police if they see a moving van in your driveway while you are beaching it; they may be quite a bit less willing to become involved if they feel you have moved on and abandoned your home to the dreaded For Sale sign. After all, they don't know what folks might think if they are seen walking around your house, picking up debris or checking the doors. Besides, you've broken the bond. You moved on and they have no idea who they will have to deal with once the house sells...after all, it isn't likely you will call them for approval of the new owner. Trust me, neighbors can become a tad bit conflicted over these issues.

Do yourself a favor. Make sure this is a topic of discussion between you and your real estate agent if there is even a remote possibility of your leaving the home during the listing period. This should trigger your agent to begin an entirely new line of discussion. If it doesn't, don't say I didn't warn you.

If you tell me you might move while I have the keys to your property we will immediately discuss the following:

• I take my responsibility to go the extra mile to protect your property seriously; within reason. But it is STILL your property. I am happy to arrange for someone to cut your lawn or blow the leaves from the driveway and even to facilitate payment from you to them for the service.
  
  
• I will make sure to physically check your home more often BUT I cannot be responsible for watering the plants or changing out seasonal decorations. Let's approach one of your friends or neighbors and ask if they would help you out on this score. If not, let's get rid of the plants and decorations or replace them with staging items that don't require tending.
  

Just to be clear, the best option for a vacant home is to get it sold quickly! You'll be happier, your neighbors will be happier and your insurance company will be happier. Let's price it right, keep it in good condition and get it done!