What is Hoarding?

When looking to sell a hoarder house belonging to a friend or family member it is important to understand what hoarding is and how to deal with it. Many times hoarding is not as a result of the person being lazy or depressed. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association declared hoarding a mental disorder that impacts about 2 to 6 percent of the American population. Hoarding can be defined as the extreme collection of items that are worthless to others, but perceived to be useful in the future or associated with safety. As a result, the hoarder has a difficult time disposing of these items.

Selling a Hoarder House

The seller of a hoarder house does not have the option of simply sweeping out the property, slapping fresh paint on the walls and calling it a day. Additional steps must be considered when preparing a hoarder house for sale. A seller should consider the disposal of hoarded items, deep cleaning and sanitizing the house, evaluating all items that need to be replaced, and proceed with repairs and replacements.

Cleaning a Hoarding House

When faced with a hoarder house it can be difficult to know where to start and it can be considered much like an ice burg. You do not know what you will discover once you start digging and disposing of items. Many hoarder houses maintain unsanitary conditions and can contain animal feces, dead animals, and other items you may not want to expose yourself to. This is why it is recommended that this task is contracted to professionals. Professional cleaners have the proper equipment and individuals to clean out and disinfect hoarder houses. Keep in mind that even after a hoarder house is cleaned you will be able to see the structure of the home and you may find irreversible damage.

Repairs Needed After Cleaning

Once hoarder items have been disposed and the house has been sanitize, assess the condition of the structure, floors, electrical, and plumbing. It is possible that these items may need replacements due to the level of neglect. Consider quotes from local contractors in your area and proceeding with the repairs.

Consider Selling "As-Is"

The level of effort required to get a hoarder house ready for sale on the market can be exhausting. If dealing with the process is not something you want to undertake consider selling the house "As-Is" to a local house buyer such as We Buy Houses Cash DMV. House buyers typically pay cash, close at your terms, cover closing costs, and best of all buy houses at their exact condition. This means that you will not have to worry about property condition or disposing and cleaning out the house.