The Nosy Neighbor

The Nosy Neighbor

Last weekend I had the privilege of showing homes to the future son-in-law and daughter of an existing client. They are a wonderful couple and we had a lot of fun driving together, cracking jokes, and naming houses we had seen as we went along.  

They have a good amount of money saved for a home, have great jobs, know what they are looking for, and can spot the best floorplans for their new home.  So when we stopped at the second to last home on our tour of homes, it was a shock when their mood changed so quickly.

Waiting for us as we walked up the driveway was "The Nosy Neighbor."  The Nosy Neighbor introduced herself, saying she lived next door.  She proceeded to tell us about the current owners' neglect of a water leak in the backyard that had gone undetected for "years."  

My new clients graciously backed away toward the front door and he stated, "Thank you for your information."  I tried twice to tell her we appreciated the information, and that what she was telling us would most likely surface during an inspection period from information provided by the Homeowners Association.  She defiantly said probably not that it was only in the by-laws, even though there was an amount owed to the association because of the leak. 

Having formerly served on two HOA boards, I felt certain that this information would be shared to a prospective buyer.

The Nosy Neighbor acted offended that we weren't willing to stay and "chat."  So, I smiled at her and said I appreciated the information but headed inside with my clients.  I'm sure that the seller would not appreciate her being so "forthcoming" with information about a defect that would most likely be repaired.  We went directly to the backyard and could see the not so sturdy pony wall with viewing fence in the backyard.  It was obvious.  

So, The Nosy Neighbor accomplished what she intended by being outspoken and detering a sale.  My clients liked the house but since he worked from home, he could not see himself living there thanks to her presence in the driveway that day.  If the owner had taken care of the back wall prior to listing the home for sale and spoken her directly with an explanation and an apology, his home might have sold by now.  As it stands, I'm not sure who will purchase it with the Nosy Neighbor greeting everyone in the driveway since she also works from home! 

 

 

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