So say you've been searching for a home and the perfect listing comes on the market. You make an offer and it's accepted (Yay!). Except you come to find it has a history of hauntings (Boo!). No really. BOO!
It's one thing to stay in a haunted hotel like the Hollywood Roosevelt for fun. It's another thing altogether to call a haunted house home.
Chances are you will not find 'haunted' in the list of disclosures from a seller. Most real estate laws require sellers to disclose only 'material facts.' These include structural issues such as cracks in the foundation, leaks in the roof, water in the basement, etc. Aside from the property's physical condition, a seller does not need to elaborate on levitating plates.
If you are a buyer and this is a concern (maybe you've been spooked before), one thing you can do is talk to the neighbors - chances are they would know of anything noteworthy. Or even Google the home for possible paranormal activity. As a seller, if a home is known to have spectral tendencies, it's best to fess up before engaging a buyer, or it can come back to haunt you.
Of course, if we had a scary listing, we'd make the most of it:
The Shining new countertops and (phantom) gourmet kitchen will have you howling at the moon! The spacious living area creaks with personality and oozes charm. Just off the living room is a bonus room - perfect for an office or Bogeyman-cave. Levitate up the stairs to the master suite with a walk-in (and through) closet. The beautiful grounds are so peaceful your cares (and maybe you) will vanish! Glide on in, this home is sure to get you in the house-hunting spirit!
Take our survey and let us know what you think (if you dare!)
Would a Haunted Listing Spook You?
This is all in good fun, but when it comes to buying a home, you really just have to trust your gut(s) - or at least your Sixth Sense ;)
Have a happy and safe Halloween!