Buying a house is a big deal, so it’s no wonder it comes with some heebie jeebies. It’s perfectly normal to get spooked when making such an expensive decision. But finances and long-term commitment aren’t the only aspects that might raise a buyer’s hackles— superstitions and stigmas can be just as impactful as other criteria. In fact, a 2021 survey by Lending Tree found that 38% of Americans have passed on a home for superstitious reasons. Here are some scenarios that might be the nail in the coffin for potential buyers.
unlucky addresses
The purchase price isn’t the only number that matters in real estate. 32% of respondents in the Lending Tree survey cited an unlucky street number, such as 13 or 666, as a reason to forgo a home. Of the nearly 70% who would keep their options open in this category, 20% said they’d want to pay less for a house with unlucky numbers. Street names were also a factor and only about half of the respondents stated they’d have no problem buying a home located on Elm Street. 29% were staunchly opposed to buying on Elm Street while 20% would consider it at a discounted price.
dearly departed neighbors
It turns out that quiet, peaceful neighborhoods aren’t always a selling point. 39% of homebuyers said they would never live next to a cemetery, according to Lending Tree. Of the group that didn’t give it an immediate pass, nearly a quarter expected a lower price. Data from Realtor.com found that median home values in a neighborhood with a cemetery are about 12% lower.
haunting histories
Of the previously mentioned 38% who have personally skipped on a home for superstitious reasons, 21% said it was because they learned of a bad event on the property. 30% of all respondents said they would avoid a house where the former owners experienced tragedy. Roy Condrey, founder of DiedInHouse.com, alleges that death in a home can impact its value by as much as 25%. And while some buyers are actually more drawn to a house with paranormal qualities, 33% said that nothing could convince them to live in a house they believe to be haunted, according to Zillow.
While some buyers may be unfazed by these factors, others might steer clear, letting superstition or unease guide their choices. As a seller, understanding these stigmas allows you to anticipate concerns and address them proactively. After all, whether it’s superstition or practicality, every buyer’s comfort is key to sealing the deal.