Selling a Hoarder House: Why You Don’t Need to Clean it Out
When this Seller came to us with a hoarding house, she was heart-broken, embarrassed, and needed help. A series of tragic events had led to a big problem with the amount of “stuff” in the house. The house needed to be sold quickly to help with bills, and the Seller needed a fresh start. We bought the home “As-Is” in all respects and brought in our team of professionals to help with the clean out.
If you have a house that has become more than you or your family can handle alone AND it needs sold too, you still have options and you don’t need to clean it out alone. In fact, there are many strategic and health reasons why you shouldn’t DIY this kind of cleanout.
It’s all about safety, efficiency, and the well-being of everyone involved. Here's a breakdown of why it's highly recommended to pass off a hoarder house and sell it “as-is” in all respects:
1. Safety Hazards:
Biohazards: Hoarder houses often contain significant biohazards, including rodent and insect infestations (feces, urine, dead bodies, YUCK!), mold growth (from accumulated moisture and decaying organic matter), and potentially hazardous materials (expired chemicals, medical waste). Professionals have the training, equipment (like respirators and protective suits), and knowledge to safely handle and dispose of these contaminants.
Structural Instability: Excessive clutter can put undue stress on the structure of the house, potentially leading to weakened floors, blocked exits, and fire hazards. Professionals are trained to identify and carefully remove items without causing further damage. This one is serious and we’ve work with the structural engineer David Vics to elvauate it and be sure it’s safe!
Fire Risks: Piles of belongings create significant fire hazards by providing fuel and blocking escape routes. The pros we work with at Stache Junk Removal can systematically remove items to reduce this risk.
Sharp Objects and Trip Hazards: Hoarder houses are often filled with hidden sharp objects, broken glass, and unstable piles that pose serious tripping and injury risks. Professionals are trained to navigate these environments safely.
2. Health Concerns:
Exposure to Allergens and Pathogens: The dust, mold, and biological contaminants in a hoarder house can trigger severe allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. The pros we work with a PuroClean and Common Courtesy Cleaning use specialized cleaning techniques and disinfectants to eliminate these health risks.
Mental and Emotional Toll: Cleaning out a hoarder house can be incredibly overwhelming and emotionally draining for family members or untrained individuals. All of our service providers bring a neutral and objective approach, reducing the emotional burden.
3. Efficiency and Effectiveness:
Experience and Expertise: Professional hoarding cleanup teams have the experience and specialized techniques to efficiently and effectively remove massive amounts of clutter. They know how to categorize items, identify valuable possessions (if any), and handle disposal according to regulations.
Specialized Equipment and Supplies: They have access to industrial-strength cleaning products, disposal bins, and equipment needed for a thorough and safe cleanup.
Proper Disposal: Professionals ensure that waste is disposed of legally and ethically, including hazardous materials and recyclable items.
Finally, attempting to clean out a hoarder's house yourself or with untrained help can be dangerous, ineffective, and emotionally taxing. And of course, it’s NOT necessary in order for the house to sell. If your end goal is the eliminate the stress of a house experiencing hoarding issues, then you’re in the right spot. You can have a confidential call with us to talk through your options, get you a cash offer to buy the house “as-is” in all respects, and rest knowing that it’s going to be safely taken care of.
It's an investment in YOUR health, safety, and future - text or call us today 740-240-6222.
