Is your home HAUNTED?  While we are certainly not qualified to answer that question, John and I have talked about this topic in the past couple of weeks. We have done some research to find out if there is anyone in Simcoe County that can help with the very real problem of ghosts and haunted happenings.

What do I mean by HAUNTED?

Yes, it is an amusing coincidence that we are learning about this topic at the end of October, when most families are getting ready to invite young trick or treaters into their homes!  The fact is that ghostly happenings can be a very real issue whether they occur in your home or in your place of business.  Some people are familiar and comfortable with things that go bump in the night, and others can become quite distraught and worried when they experience unexplained events.

I’m talking about things like unusual noises when no one is there, doors or cabinets opening and closing, lights mysteriously turning off or on, shadows, strange behaviour from your dog or cat, a feeling of being touched, unexplained smells, actually seeing things move without anyone moving them, and even apparitions.  John and I have heard from a couple of clients in the past month who are experiencing some of these happenings! 

As far as the connection to our business goes, Real Estate Salespeople need to be aware of the very real possibility that homes and businesses can be haunted, whether we are working with Buyers or Sellers.  If we are selling a home or business location, it is our responsibility to ask the necessary questions to determine if the current owner has ever had an unexplained experience.  If there is any indication that there are guests from another realm connected to the property, we have a duty to disclose that to any potential Buyers.  Even the proximity to a graveyard needs to be disclosed.  This all falls under the ‘stigma’ umbrella.  For REALTORS, we are taught that a STIGMA is a non-physical, intangible attribute of a property, be it a residential home or place of business, that may bring about a psychological or emotional response on the part of an interested buyer. 

We can’t assume what will or will not bother another person.  Stigmas include a violent death on or near the property, criminal activity in the area, etc.  It doesn’t matter if these problems occurred 2 months ago or 20 years ago…it has to be disclosed so that a potential Buyer can make his or her own decision based on all the facts.  The last thing anyone wants is to move into the home of their dreams and find out from the neighbours that the previous owners enjoyed the antics of ghosts!

So, if you are able to embrace the Hallowe’en season and enjoy the comings and goings of little ghosts and goblins, you’ll enjoy the next few days.  If ghosts are not your thing but you feel you might have visitors, we recommend that you do some research to find those who are trained to help you out.  There are plenty of options out there!  HAPPY HALLOWE’EN!!

We always enjoy your feedback and comments.  You can contact John Weber anytime at John@johnweberteam.com or by cell at 705-727-6111.  You can reach Christie Bond anytime at Christie@johnweberteam.com or by cell at 705-220-1152.