Sellers have the monumental task of packing up and moving a household, often on a tight budget. However, the buyer expects to get a house clear of leftover and unwanted personal possessions.
It could cost the buyers hundreds of dollars or thousands of dollars to clear out furniture and debris. Many items require special disposal such as tires and paint cans. Large items such as furniture can fill up dumpsters that are expensive to rent. The articles left behind don’t throw themselves out, they require expensive labor.
Bad Scenario
A bad scenario is when the buyer does their walk through prior to closing and there’s a bunch of stuff all over the house. This can cause delays, grounds for termination, and heated last minute negotiations involving dollars and emotions.
Worse Scenario
Worse scenario is if the buyer’s do not conduct a walk through prior to closing and find the left behind clutter. It's too late to negotiate. Think that doesn’t happen? Well, it does.
Responsibilities of All Parties
The Seller: Please clear out the house. If you run out of time or money, get a bunch of friends and family to throw a clean-up pizza party. It’s amazing how quickly a house can be cleared out by ten people having fun helping. You would give your friend an evening of help, wouldn’t you?
The Listing Agent: Please counsel the seller on the financial and scheduling risks of not clearing the house.
The Buyer: Always conduct a walk through 24 hours prior to closing.
The Buyer’s Agent: Always conduct a walk through 24 hours prior to closing.
Everyone: Please be conscious of contractual rights and responsibilities. If a problem is brewing, resolve it as soon as possible. Solutions and compromises can usually be arranged with proper notice.
All parties should be proactive and work together to a common goal. Life isn't perfect and plans can go awry in a hurry. Early communication is the key.
Let's all work together amicably towards the same common goal: A successful and smooth purchase and sale of a home.
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