Whether you believe in the afterlife or the existence of ghosts, there is no doubt that “haunted” real estate comes with many financial benefits. So if you are in the market for a new home, here’s how you could find scary good deals in the real estate market.
5 Benefits of Buying Haunted Real Estate
1. There is less competition.
The real estate market has been hit hard in recent years, driving up costs and interest rates for homebuyers. The low inventory and high demand have led to bidding wars and fierce competition.
But if you are willing to share your home with ghostly residents, you won’t have to compete with as many potential buyers. Stigmatized properties that have been the scene of violent crimes or murder are notoriously hard to sell. Therefore, they tend to remain on the market longer than other homes. When sellers have fewer options, you are more likely to have your offer accepted, even if it’s below the asking price.
2. It could save you a ton of money.
As mentioned above, haunted homes may remain on the market for months, or even years. Houses that have experienced non-natural deaths, like a murder or suicide, are less appealing to a large number of home buyers. Market experts estimate that it can drop the property value by 10% to 25%.
However, if you don’t mind buying haunted real estate, it gives you more negotiating power. Most owners expect to sell stigmatized properties at a significant discount. So, if paranormal encounters won’t scare you away, it could save you a ton of money on your next home.
3. You’ll get more for your money.
When you get a significant discount on haunted real estate, it puts larger homes within your budget range. If you are willing to overlook the house’s additional paranormal features, you may find options with more bedrooms or in prime locations for much lower prices. If you’re lucky, you may even manage to purchase well-constructed, historical homes that would never be affordable otherwise.
4. You may be able to generate income from it.
With the recent rise in haunted tourism, you could turn your haunted real estate into a source of income. Today, more people advertise and celebrate their spooky history by turning these properties into museums, hotels, and restaurants.
If you choose the right location, your haunted home might become a destination for curious visitors. Although it isn’t possible for all properties, enough people have been successful to consider it.
5. Many people enjoy cohabitating with ghosts.
While many homebuyers would prefer new builds, others actually seek out haunted real estate. They enjoy sharing their home with the ghostly inhabitants that are a part of the home’s history. In fact, many consider it a point of pride and an excellent conversation starter.
If you still have reservations, it may help to talk to someone who has lived in a haunted house. Many who believe will tell you that they often feel the presence in the home was benign and didn’t impede their lifestyle. Some even develop relationships with the spirits and consider them part of the family.
However, if you prefer to be a solitary resident in your home, you can always seek out professional assistance. Many spiritual practitioners and paranormal investigators are willing to cleanse your home and restore peace to the property.
Parting Thoughts
Buying a home will likely be the most expensive decision you make. Therefore, you need to consider all aspects carefully before closing on your next home. However, if the paranormal doesn’t make you paranoid, stigmatized properties could open a whole new realm of possibilities for your budget.
Read More
- 5 Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Buying Your First Home
- How to Find a Good Real Estate Agent
- Real Estate Terminology To Learn Before Hunting For Your Home
Jenny Smedra is an avid world traveler, ESL teacher, former archaeologist, and freelance writer. Choosing a life abroad had strengthened her commitment to finding ways to bring people together across language and cultural barriers. While most of her time is dedicated to either working with children, she also enjoys good friends, good food, and new adventures.