Realtor.com said at least 32% of potential homebuyers would consider buying a haunted house or a property suspected of paranormal activity, according to a recent survey.
Still, 29% of those willing buyers believe a discount of at least 20% is in order since ghosts and flying plates tend to lower a property’s value.
About 33% said they would consider a haunted home, while another 35% are against the idea entirely.
Two percent of those surveyed said they’d be willing to pay more for a haunted house.
But if your home has ghostly presences, it’s wise to tell them not to act up on the property tour. Sixty-two percent of the Realtor.com survey respondents said a warm or cold spot (perhaps produced by your ghost) could kill the sale.
Strange noises, footsteps and slamming doors also are considered deterrents for 48% of respondents. Another 41% are okay with ghosts as long as the ghosts remain invisible.
Other than that, your less than lively houseguests are not a deal breaker, especially around Halloween.
What rumored spooky happenings would NOT stop you from purchasing a home (assuming the home is otherwise a good fit) (Select all that apply)?
Source: Realtor.com
- 62% – Warm or cold spots
- 48% – Strange noises (footsteps, doors slamming)
- 44% – Objects being moved from where they were placed
- 45% – Flickering lights/appliances
- 43% – Strange sensations
- 41% – Ghost sightings
- 36% – Levitating objects
- 35% – Strange voices
- 24% – All of the above would stop me from purchasing a home
How much would a “haunted” home have to be discounted (from its market value) for you to decide to purchase it?
- 15% – 0% I would pay full market value of the home
- 12% – 1-10% less than market value
- 17% – 11-20% less than market value
- 18% – 21-30% less than market value
- 19% – 31-50% less than market value
- 17% – 51%+ less than market value
- 2% – I would pay more than market value for a “haunted” home
