Houses with a reputation for being haunted fall under a category called “stigmatized property.” These are properties that buyers perceive as disagreeable for reasons other than the physical condition of the home.
Property is deemed stigmatized when a crime, a suicide, a murder, so-called hauntings, or deaths occur on the premises. It can also be stigmatized because of the notoriety of the previous owner.
In California, home sellers are required to disclose whether a death occurred in the property during the last three years. (However, one homeowner successfully argued that the crimes committed a decade earlier affected the value of their property.)
While a home near a cemetery isn’t stigmatized per se, individual beliefs and perceptions beg the question: would you buy a home near a cemetery?
Here are the pros and cons that can help you decide.
PROS OF BUYING A HOME NEAR A CEMETERY
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A peaceful and tranquil environment
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Homes for sale are more affordable
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The area is generally safe from large city developments
If your pet peeve are loud neighbors, then you might appreciate living near a cemetery. Cemeteries are generally quiet and tranquil hubs. Thus, if you’re looking to escape the noise of city life, browse homes for sale next to San Diego’s 26 cemeteries.
Yes, there’s a smaller pool of buyers for houses located next to a cemetery, but it only offers an opportunity to buy valuable real estate at lower prices. Consult your real estate agent about the asking price. Or, you can shave a few dollars off the list price when you make an offer.
In a city as vibrant as San Diego, there is always the risk of being asked to relocate because of city developments. But if you live near a cemetery, the chances of this happening is low. Much like parks, cemeteries are beautifully landscaped green spots in the city. The logistical challenge of converting a cemetery into a large city development, not to mention the process of having the community weigh in on the plan, makes the area generally safer from development projects.
CONS OF BUYING A HOME NEAR A CEMETERY
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May be triggering
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Environmental concerns
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Buyer pool
A cemetery is a final resting place for those who have passed on. Being reminded of this reality may not be easy for some people. It can be a source of stress or trigger personal issues. While some people love peace and quiet, others, not so much. At the end of the day, you want your home to be a place of relaxation so go with what makes you feel comfortable.
While modern cemeteries follow updated health standards, you can check the environmental history of the area for cases of possible groundwater contamination in your community.
If you decide to sell your property in the future, you may face a limited pool of buyers. The proximity to the cemetery will not affect the value of the home, but you may have fewer takers. However, an experienced real estate agent will know how to effectively target and tap the right market.
REAL ESTATE DECISIONS ARE MADE EASY WITH JACOBO REALTY GROUP
The truth is, there are many factors to consider when buying your next home. Location is a top priority, and while living anywhere in San Diego is a perk on its own, some areas may be better than others. In the end, however, it’s your choice that matters.
We at Jacobo Realty Group can help you with these decisions. We have been helping people make worthwhile real estate purchases for over 20 years. Call us today at 760.632.8900 or contact us here to learn more.