Someone passed away in the home. Now what? This is one of the hardest conversations I have. A death in the home changes how buyers perceive it, and we have to be honest about that.
First: A death in the home within the past 3 years must be disclosed in California, so we are required to tell any buyers coming through. There are some circumstances that are protected.
The reality is that yes, some buyer demographics will be uncomfortable. But plenty won’t if the house is properly presented for sale.
Hi, I’m Tanja Odzak, Realtor with eXp Realty. I help people sell and buy homes right here in the East Bay
Here is what works when selling: disclose early and move on. Don’t bury it in the listing details or surprise buyers at the showing or after they’ve seen it. Get it out there so serious buyers self-select in.
Price it fairly for the market and condition. If the home is otherwise in great shape and presented well, a recent death may or may not affect the price too much. Buyers who care won’t make an offer anyway.
Then focus on the rest: staging, photos, proper marketing, and showings. Make the home feel alive and cared-for! That matters more than the history of the walls.
One more thing: if family is grieving, getting professional help—an agent, a stager, someone to handle the logistics—takes the emotional weight off your shoulders so you can grieve.
I’m Tanja Odzak and I’ve sold over $95 Million worth of homes and have a decade of experience, If you’re facing this and need guidance on how to move forward, reach out to me. Message me “TRANSITION” and let’s talk through your next steps.