ᐅ Single-family house may become available – what is the best way to proceed?
Created on: 9 Jun 2016 10:23
J
Jogger84Hello,
there is a nice single-family house in our neighborhood that would fit my criteria. :-)
I know the residents by sight; both are over 80, and the wife recently passed away. I heard that he was being cared for by a home care service.
Two weeks ago, there was already a trunk load of bulky waste in front of the house, and since then the shutters have been down. My suspicion is that he has moved out and the house is going to be sold. Unfortunately, the market here in the countryside has become so tight that you have to act early. Many deals happen through word of mouth.
Yes, yes, I know, vultures are already circling... 😉
Occasionally, one of the residents’ adult children is seen in front of the house.
However, I’m unsure whether and how to approach them or what the best way is to get more information. 😕
Or would it be better to ask the neighbors (whom I only know by sight and a quick hello)?
Does anyone have experience with this kind of situation? 🙂
Greetings from Jogger
there is a nice single-family house in our neighborhood that would fit my criteria. :-)
I know the residents by sight; both are over 80, and the wife recently passed away. I heard that he was being cared for by a home care service.
Two weeks ago, there was already a trunk load of bulky waste in front of the house, and since then the shutters have been down. My suspicion is that he has moved out and the house is going to be sold. Unfortunately, the market here in the countryside has become so tight that you have to act early. Many deals happen through word of mouth.
Yes, yes, I know, vultures are already circling... 😉
Occasionally, one of the residents’ adult children is seen in front of the house.
However, I’m unsure whether and how to approach them or what the best way is to get more information. 😕
Or would it be better to ask the neighbors (whom I only know by sight and a quick hello)?
Does anyone have experience with this kind of situation? 🙂
Greetings from Jogger
Jogger84 schrieb:
Occasionally, one of the adult children of the residents stands in front of the house.
However, I’m unsure whether and how I should approach them or what the best way is to get more information. 😕 “Hello, I’ve noticed that the shutters have been down lately. Is your father doing okay?” And the rest usually follows naturally.
K1300S schrieb:
How I love those curious questions... 🙄
But maybe that’s normal in rural areas?Those who ask, learn!
Basically, language was invented so people can communicate with each other – it often has nothing to do with curiosity.
Also true in the city... It’s probably just a matter of attitude whether you prefer to write in a forum or talk in real life 😉
K1300S schrieb:
I just love these curious questions ... 🙄
But maybe that’s normal out in the countryside?It seems so, as a large part of properties and land is sold based on hearsay questions.
Jogger84 schrieb:
Does anyone have experience with this or a similar situation? 🙂Yes. Many.
Just go there. Talk to the people and briefly explain the reason for your question.
I didn’t do this before either. By now, I always openly share my honest opinion and approach people directly. It works much better.
Please use the argumentation from a first-person perspective. For example: "I have noticed that xyz, I draw the following conclusion (they might want to sell), and I am concerned about... xyz." Stay true to yourself, argue as you are, but be open and authentic.
In this case: The worst thing that can happen is that they don’t want to sell. Chances are, they will still appreciate your concern if you phrase your question carefully. You might even get some tips (no, we’re not selling, but my brother-in-law in the neighboring village...).
The used market is really empty – lots of overpriced “junk” out there. Networking and contacts are more helpful than ever if you want to buy something good secondhand (which can save you a lot of stress compared to new construction).
So – just gather your courage, maybe bring some chocolates or a bottle of wine, and go. Ring the doorbell. Ask.
Best regards,
Thorsten
PS: Especially in the Schwalm-Eder district – you can have a great conversation with people there. They’re not unfriendly, but many nice and approachable folks live there.