Posted by Doris Wright on December 1, 2009 at 5:24am
Just a reminder to be careful when showing REOs. HUD, & Bank owned homesMy husband usually accompanies me to all showings.....this is what happened on a rare exception!I had an experience recently where upon entering a vacant home, I smelled cigarette smoke. It smelled too fresh, not the stale kind that comes with an old home with rancid carpet! We then proceeded to see the home, calling out "hello" as we went through the home. I think from the signs, the squatter was hiding in the attic space when he heard us coming. Needless to say, we made a quick exit. In retrospect, this was stupid.No sale is worth sacrificing your safety. My clients husband was a big guy, so we had some "safety in numbers and size" and "don't mess with me" to our credit....but if that squatter had a gun, well, it really doesn't matter how big your clients husband is....Just TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS.Get the heck out of there, and have the police check the place out before going back in. Report any suspicions to the listing agent as well. Hey, they always want feedback!
Great advice. You can never be too careful. As you can imagine, I was not expecting the squatter by any outside signs, an ok neighborhood, and a nice looking home.....GOOD COVER!
I make it a habit to walk around the house/listing before going in. Looking for open windows and unlocked door. If something is not right, 911 is only a call away.
I have had this happen before too!! Also, watch for gang members "marking thier teritory." I have gone in the front door and found the back door wide open, only to find gang markings all over the house. You should always carry mace with you. And keep you cell phone on the ready. If in doubt...cal the police before entering and then let the listing agent know what is going on. We can't stop them, but we can be prepared!!
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