SECURITY IN A VACANT HOUSE SALE SITUATION
A home seller’s feelings of stress may intensify when leaving a home vacant while on the market, since in the absence of the owners, the home sits vulnerable to vandalism, theft, natural event disaster, and other risks. Taking precautions can lessen the or eliminate these risks, easing the seller’s peace of mind. Make the necessary arrangements guided by the following points:
Inform Local Law Enforcement
When you leave the home vacant, inform your local police department that your home is for sale. When informed, local police patrolling the neighborhood will stay alert in watching over your home. Make sure they have your current contact information.
Enlist Your Neighbors
Enlist friendly neighbors in support of watching over the vacant home. Ask them to report any unusual activity. Alerting your neighborhood watch group or association is helpful. Your real estate agent can also make periodical checks of the property. Informing neighbors that your house is for sale can even drive unexpected leads under surprising circumstances.
Create a Lived-In, Occupied Illusion
Though you might be advised to leave the property unoccupied while it’s listed for sale, there’s no reason to leave it looking so empty that it’s an invitation to damage. During a home sale, it’s likely that photos of the home and address are posted and viewed on the Internet. An entirely vacant house can be an invitation to vandalism, copper theft, or other damage. Criminals can view interior photos to determine whether the property has indications
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