It’s a Boo Market
Granite countertops? Forget about them. Some homebuyers seem more interested in ghosts these days.
A recent survey by Rocket Mortgage, just in time for Halloween, has revealed that about 65% of Americans are considering purchasing a haunted house. Among those, 39% would definitely go for it, while 26% are somewhat open to the idea.
While the notion of having a paranormal roommate might send shivers down some spines, one in three people reported that they’ve actually lived in a haunted house before.
Haunted houses, once confined to novelty tours and horror flicks, are becoming more relevant in real estate discussions.
Curiously, only 18% of respondents indicated they would sell their home if they learned it was haunted. In contrast, 41% expressed a willingness to befriend a ghost or explore the background of their residence. Perhaps that’s due to lower mortgage rates?
This survey highlights a unique niche in the real estate market that seems to have stepped out of legend.
Just this October, eerie properties have made headlines across the nation. Comedian Matt Rife has purchased the notorious home of Ed and Lorraine Warren in Connecticut, once home to the demonic Annabelle doll.
The Rhode Island farmhouse associated with “The Conjuring” was sold under mysterious circumstances after an auction was abruptly canceled.
Meanwhile, New Jersey’s so-called “Watcher House,” known for creepy letters and numerous police visits, showcases a fear-driven evaluation.
Still, there’s enthusiasm among buyers.
Out of 1,037 people surveyed, 79% are current homeowners, and nearly half reside in suburban areas, which are often rich with Halloween legends.
People have reported various paranormal experiences: 64% felt a strong presence, 61% heard strange noises, and almost half noticed footsteps with no visible source.
Interestingly, 23% of respondents stated they currently live in a haunted house, while another 13% noted past experiences. Almost 30% haven’t personally encountered anything ghostly but still believe in them. Only 17% completely dismissed the idea of ghosts.
For those who have experienced the supernatural, common signs include a “strong presence” (64%) and “mysterious noises” (61%). Other signs were unexplained footsteps (49%), sightings of ghosts (37%), and objects seemingly moving on their own (24%).
As for the financial aspect, about 40% would like a discount of 40% to 59% if they were purchasing a haunted house. Only 15% would settle for a discount of 20% or less.
Most participants viewed the ghosts as friendly (43%) or mischievous (20%), with fewer considering them spooky (18%) or angry (8%).
What’s quite intriguing is that a significant number of buyers are willing to negotiate on price for the right haunted house. When asked about desired discounts, 39% said they would want at least 40% off; 29% were satisfied with a discount between 20% and 39%. Just 15% would take less than 20% off.
Moreover, one-third of respondents revealed that properties with a “spooky” or isolated feel would be a deal-breaker.
Even reports of a death on the property, whether natural or violent, don’t scare off everyone; more than half would consider such homes if the price was right. Proximity to a cemetery or insights from a paranormal investigator doesn’t automatically raise concerns, either.
If a ghost shows itself after moving in, 37% would want to try methods like salt or sage to cleanse the space, while nearly 40% would prefer to coexist with it.
These findings signify not just a tolerance for the supernatural but also a cultural shift in housing perspectives. With affordability being tight and inventory low, buyers are increasingly open to “stigmatized properties,” especially if it can mean snagging a better deal.
Various notorious haunted locations, like Lizzie Borden’s house in Massachusetts and the infamous Amityville Horror House, have found new owners, showcasing that spooky properties can indeed sell.
