I've noticed a few "tells" that seem to indicate a home is coming on the market at some point in the near future. Without the help of a sign saying "Coming Soon", future home sellers will go about doing things that tend to indicate that they'll be selling their home. I'm pointing these out so that my clients can, if they're looking around a specific neighborhood, identify a home that might be a good option to buy. It's like getting inside information without having to actually do anything.
SIGN 1 - PODS (or other portable storage) - When I see 1 or two of these sitting in a driveway or on the street it usually means that someone is moving and wants the flexibility that comes with temporary storage of their belongings instead of using a typical mover. If the POD is there for more than a week it means they're taking their time. If it's there for a day or two, it means they're serious.
SIGN 2 - Large Landscaping Projects - When you see a house that is as overgrown as the Amazon rainforest suddenly become the center of attention for major landscaping work, it's usually a sign that the owner has been told by the agent that cleaning up will get more offers. If someone has been living in a jungle for years on end, why would they suddenly decide to clean up? They don't. It's their agent giving them good advice. Now you know another house coming soon.
SIGN 3 - Vacancy - If you see a house that was occupied suddenly become vacant, it's a sure bet it will go on the market soon. The caveat, of course, is that it wasn't a rental. If you want to check, ask the neighbors. Often times a person relocating will move out before putting their home on the market. Have your agent check the tax record to verify that the tax bill goes to the same address and you'll confirm that it was owner occupied.
There are other methods of identifying homes that are likely to be coming soon. If you're paying careful attention to a specific neighborhood, watching for these signs can help give you and edge on finding the perfect home.
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Bryan Robertson, Broker Associate | T: 650.799.9951 | Email: bryan@serenogroup.com | Website: http://www.BryanRobertsonHomes.com |CA License: 01191946 | Sereno Group - Los Altos branch | 369 S. San Antonio Road | Los Altos, CA 94022
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