You CAN be successful at selling property next to an unpleasant sight
We all know the picture: boarded-up windows, overgrown weeds, deteriorating paint and crumbling features. Sometimes, they’re even spooky.Abandoned homes are everywhere, and are especially commonplace during a recession. Yet, there are ways, as a real estate professional, to mitigate the possibility of reduced property values because of those blemishes next door.
The following are some ways you can approach the situation to get the most for your listing:
Contact the Homeowners’ Association
Most associations will cover expenses to help with maintenance issues, such as tending to the lawn. Then, this cost will be cleared by the bank before the land or home is sold.
Know your local & state laws
Some state governments will fine property owners for failing to maintain land. However, New Jersey’s state law sites banks as the primary entities accountable to maintain the property during the foreclosure process. Your city’s building division should be at the top of your contact list for inquiries about securing and maintaining abandoned properties and homes. Building code violations, fire risks and also vandalism can later be inspected by town officials who are notified.
Beware of the boundaries
During the selling process, in the meantime, quick fixes like planting taller shrubs or putting up a fence are worth the investment to minimize negative effects of the abandoned property on other neighboring properties. The view of distinct property lines is more pleasing to the eye. Planting or constructing a fence are often recommendations by home staging companies. Also, it is a good idea to install blinds inside a home to minimize the view of unsightly properties.
Lend a helping hand
But first, be careful not to trespass! Investigate who is the owner of the property and then offer aid—or else your innocent intentions could go to waste. After a little TLC, your property next to that unsightly land could soon sell.
If you are in the market to buy or sell a NJ home in Monmouth, Ocean or Middlesex Counties, call Leanne @ 917 596 2772 or Anna @ 732 371 3233.
