STAGING IN THE NEWS: LA Times – Beware the pitfalls of buying an unoccupied home

In the back of our minds, we all know that a vacant home can become a target to vandals, squatters and the like. What we often overlook are the not so obvious issues that can arise when a home sits vacant for an extended period of time. Besides the obvious dust bunnies, cobwebs and musty “empty house” smell, more serious issues can arise that gone unattended can quickly become a deterrent to prospective buyers.

A recent LA Times article warns of the many pitfalls that an unoccupied home may pose for a would-be buyer.

No matter how large or small or expensive the house, every plumbing fixture and appliance has at least one valve, gasket or hose that can dry out if the item in question is not in use, Kuhn says. That causes gaps that can result in leaks or even floods when a new owner moves in.

The article also warns about mold that can grow in a sealed up home, not just between the walls, but out in the open as well. The article touches on some even more disturbing issues such as squatters and rodents…

Insects, rodents and small animals such as raccoons can cause as much or even more damage. Even when vermin make themselves at home for a relatively short period, they can leave fleas behind and their droppings can cause unsanitary conditions.

As if we needed any more compelling arguments for Managed Staging.

You can read the entire article HERE.