Not everyone enjoyed the recent rains like our young friend shown left. I think there were at least 2 home sellers in Evanston for whom water was a big issue on Sunday.
A couple who’s home I listed in Evanston got a contract on it last week so I took them out looking for a larger home on Sunday. Three of the homes they wanted to see in Evanston where having open houses, so I timed our visits with the open houses.
When we reached the 2nd open house, we found a sign that there was no open house. I called the broker explaining that I had 2 serious buyers and asked if I could show the home. I was told that the seller said there were to be no showings that day.
We went on to the 3rd open house and I knocked on the door. The seller answered and informed us that the open house was cancelled. I again explained that I had 2 serious buyers, but she replied, “This isn’t a good time.” and asked us to come back during the week.
Hmm??? Could it be that these sellers had water in their basements and didn’t want any prospective buyers to see it?
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Fran Bailey shows, previews and tracks downtown Chicago homes for sale giving her the insights needed to help her clients negotiate the best price and terms. Fran has been quoted in numerous Chicago and national publications. To schedule showings of listings regardless of broker or to contact Fran email her at fran.bailey@bairdwarner.com or call 773.793.4516. Learn More
Fran Bailey, Realtor
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Probably.
But who would show a house with standing water in the basement?
And I wouldn’t offer up that I had water in the basement, either.
Of course, I would disclose at the showing that there had been water in the basement. But I want prospects to see my property. And I want them to see it in its best light.
Curious– did you ask the broker directly if the house took water?
Hi Chris,
Two other sellers with water in their basements did let us see their homes on Sunday.
My buyers commented that they appreciated the sellers’ honesty. They also were more comfortable knowing what could happen in these homes with our recent level of flooding.
I didn’t actually speak with the broker. I spoke with the broker’s administrative staff who handle scheduling showings. I didn’t ask if the one house had water since they most likely wouldn’t have known.
I understand that sellers want their homes to show their best, but by cancelling open houses with no explanation, they invite buyers to assume the worst.
You’re right about that, Fran.