Death/drug use on a property

Death/drug use on a property

Long H.Pro Member
Member since 2022 · 4 posts · 1 vote

Potentially morbid albeit serious question(s), 

How does death of any kind (ie: illness, homicide, etc.) on a property affect it’s value? I understand that some states have or don’t have laws that require disclosure of death on a property.

Additionally, if a property was once the site of illicit drug use (ie: a meth house/lab) but is a good deal would it be worth the rehab?  

Lastly if the numbers work but there is a death/ drug use on the property… would you still buy it?

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Realtor and Investor · Leawood, KS · Member since 2015 · 166 posts · 78 votes
3y

I would avoid.  Some cultures are VERY disturbed by any death that has occurred in the home. I have had many buyer clients turn down many perfectly fine homes because of this one fact.  The question is typically raised if the home is being sold in the name of a trust or if the property is being sold by several owners with different last names and the property is extremely dated with dated furniture (like an elderly person has lived there). 

When it comes to the drug houses, I would talk to an insurance provider about this.  You might find out the home is uninsurable or has a staggeringly high deductible.  Even after the rehab you might try to sell it to buyers who struggle to find affordable insurance on the home and then can't close or can't get the property sold at the price you want.  Insurance companies probably don't have as much of a forgiving attitude as some uninformed first time home buyer.

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  • Realtor and Investor · Leawood, KS · Member since 2015 · 166 posts · 78 votes
    3y

    I would avoid.  Some cultures are VERY disturbed by any death that has occurred in the home. I have had many buyer clients turn down many perfectly fine homes because of this one fact.  The question is typically raised if the home is being sold in the name of a trust or if the property is being sold by several owners with different last names and the property is extremely dated with dated furniture (like an elderly person has lived there). 

    When it comes to the drug houses, I would talk to an insurance provider about this.  You might find out the home is uninsurable or has a staggeringly high deductible.  Even after the rehab you might try to sell it to buyers who struggle to find affordable insurance on the home and then can't close or can't get the property sold at the price you want.  Insurance companies probably don't have as much of a forgiving attitude as some uninformed first time home buyer.

  • Rental Property Investor · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2013 · 919 posts · 911 votes
    3y

    Each state has its own disclosure laws w regards to death on property.  Some don’t require any seller disclosure.

    Meth/drug falls into a different catagory.  I wouldn’t do a meth/drug house due to the fact I don not have experience.  Eradication can be expensive.  And if you have a tenant that comes down w some type of respiratory issue, you could be sued.

    Death I’d do.  Meth/drugs, nope.

    Hope that helps, ;-)

    Alan

  • Investor · Willow Spring, NC · Member since 2009 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    3y
    Quote from @Long H.:

    Potentially morbid albeit serious question(s), 

    How does death of any kind (ie: illness, homicide, etc.) on a property affect it’s value? I understand that some states have or don’t have laws that require disclosure of death on a property.

    Additionally, if a property was once the site of illicit drug use (ie: a meth house/lab) but is a good deal would it be worth the rehab?  

    Lastly if the numbers work but there is a death/ drug use on the property… would you still buy it?

    You don't state your state. In NC, disclosure is not required. Death in a property is not a material fact. NCGS 39-50. I'd quote your state but your profile is incomplete so I can't. In the last 36 years I've been an owner/landlord, I've had at least six tenants pass away off the top of my head. I am sure there were far more births that I am not aware of, but for some reason only two tenants let me know they gave birth. Life and death happens. Valuation? It's a non-issue. 

    Regarding the meth house, it depends on the PCR. If in doubt, get a professional assessment. It is all about context. I've viewed at least six in the past 20 years and bought two (subsequently sold unrelated to PCR after 10+ years) without issue. I avoided two properties with exploded minivans and/or RVs in plain sight along with 55G drums, both in Harnett County. It's often not that hard to figure out. 
  • Investor · Austin, TX · Member since 2021 · 9k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    3y

    I have bought many crack houses. Buyers would never be able to tell when I am done with the rehab. If there is a public case against the property or the neighborhood is unappealing that is a different issue. 

  • Rental Property Investor · Boston, MA · Member since 2019 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    3y

    @Long Huynh I’d stay away to be honest.

  • Investor · Akron, OH · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    3y

    OMG, no superstitions here. In an area with old homes there would be almost *NO* houses available if you ruled out every house where a death had occurred. People use to die at home all the time and it's becoming more and more common with hospice. Fatal drug overdoses are depressingly common. I had one in an apartment my first year in business. I disclosed that fact to everyone that looked at the apartment (even though it's not required) and not once single apartment hunter cared. I also bought a former meth house that had been cleaned and renovated. Also, no one cared. The first tenant after the rehab is still in the property 11 years later. If the property is a good deal, I'd buy it. I wouldn't feel qualified to remediate a meth lab house or deal with hazardous waste, but a properly rehabbed property would not be a problem for me.

  • Investor · Orlando, FL · Member since 2023 · 53 posts · 17 votes
    3y

    The impact of a death, whether due to illness, homicide, or any other cause, on a property's value can vary depending on several factors, including local regulations, cultural beliefs, and individual buyer preferences. In some states or jurisdictions, there are laws that require disclosure of deaths on a property, while in others, such disclosures may not be mandatory.

    The effect on property value can be influenced by stigma, superstitions, or cultural beliefs surrounding death. Some potential buyers may be deterred by the perceived negative energy or association with a tragic event, while others may not be affected at all. It ultimately depends on the individual buyer and their personal beliefs and concerns.

    Regarding a property that was once used as a meth lab or for illicit drug use, it's important to note that these properties can present significant health and safety risks due to the chemicals and residues involved. Rehabilitating such a property can be a complex and costly process, as it often requires specialized cleaning and remediation to ensure the property is safe for habitation. It is essential to consult with experts, such as environmental consultants or remediation companies, to assess the extent of the contamination and estimate the rehabilitation costs accurately.

    Deciding whether to purchase a property with a history of death or drug use ultimately depends on your personal circumstances, risk tolerance, and investment goals. Some buyers may be willing to overlook the property's history if the financial aspects, such as the purchase price and potential for return on investment, outweigh any concerns about stigma. Others may be more hesitant due to personal beliefs or concerns about the property's condition and potential future issues.

    It is crucial to thoroughly research and evaluate the property, including considering any legal requirements, potential stigma, rehabilitation costs, and future resale prospects before making a decision. Consulting with real estate professionals, attorneys, and experts in environmental remediation can provide valuable guidance to help you make an informed choice.

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