When Home Sellers Say No to Early Possession

    Insurance... liability... what if it does not close? 

      I did it once.  Buyer asks, "Can I puh-leeze move in Friday, even though we are closing Monday?  The Seller already moved out, it will save me hundreds of dollars I have to pay the moving company to keep their truck parked out front and their driver in a motel."

     I caved in.  Big mistake.  Over the weekend the air conditioner mysteriously "failed".  The Buyer demanded a new one; otherwise he would not close.   Obvious extortion, but what could we do?  I split the cost of a new HVAC with the Seller and we closed.

Pre-settlement occupancy is something that is definitely a rare situation where it can work out.  I had one that closed just yesterday where the seller actually allowed it because the Veterans Administration had a back log of underwriting files and it affected the buyers' close time.  It was low risk and actually helped the seller who was having to bring money to closing.  This is a RARE situation where it worked out.

Had two of those this month, both were income properties and the buyers had fulfilled their part including funding. Seller was held up by tax liens so made concessions to keep the buyers happy. It worked.

Good morning, Elizabeth -- likely in most situations it will work out just fine but I believe in Murphy's law and will advise accordingly.   We are mere messengers hopefully with enough common sense and experience.    I can see I can now add "trespasser" to your long list of "accomplishments".   

Elizabeth Weintraub Sacramento Real Estate Agent, Top 1% of Lyon Agents My gut reaction is always no.  I foresee too many issues that may arise.  However, in the end it is the seller's call. 

After reading your full post, I somehow ended up on your photos "A Blast From the Past."  You looked great then and now!  It's amazing the things we see when we look at those pics from yesteryear.