It’s that time of year when cobwebs, creaking floorboards, and flickering lights are all part of the season’s charm — but the truth is that they’re features of the real estate market year round.

Have you ever wondered how to sell a haunted house? You’re not alone in the dark.

Thousands of people are searching for the answer to this age-old question every month. Whether your house comes with ghostly legends, a mysterious past, or you’re just looking to get into the spooky spirit, here’s how to position any property with a history that keeps people up at night.

Step 1: Be Transparent (and a Little Playful)

Buyers today can sniff out secrets faster than a bloodhound. When listing a haunted or otherwise “stigmatized property,” honesty is the best policy. Frame the history with a touch of humor — after all, the quirks and ghost stories might be a selling point for the right buyer!

On the hunt for more home selling tips? Find out how to pull off a great sale in any season!

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Step 2: Highlight the Unique Features

Instead of hiding the cracks and creaks, spotlight what makes your home memorable. Is there a turret perfect for a Halloween-themed reading nook? A secret passageway? In this day and age, the unusual can become a major draw — especially for buyers who love a story.

Step 3: Price It Smartly

Pricing is everything. Haunted houses can be a tough sell for mainstream buyers, but collectors of the unusual, fans of historic properties, or thrill-seekers may be willing to pay a premium. Work with your agent to set a number that’s realistic but still highlights the home’s charm.

Step 4: Stage for the Season

If you’re selling near Halloween, lean into it. Decorate strategically to emphasize the house’s history and character. Think tasteful gothic touches or moody lighting for photos that make people curious rather than scared.

Looking for more Halloween-themed tricks and treats? Haunt these posts next:

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• What Are the Best Streets Around the DMV for Trick-Or-Treating?
• Everything You Should Know About Buying a Historic Home in DC

Step 5: Market to the Right Audience

Online listings can include keywords like “How to tell if a house is haunted before buying” or “Buying a haunted house” to capture curiosity-driven buyers. Another festive tip? Social media posts, local Halloween groups, and even ghost-hunting forums can be surprisingly effective.

Thinking Like a Buyer

Remember, some people actively seek haunted or unique properties. Buyers might ask: “What is a stigmatized property?” or “Has anything unusual happened here?” Our advice: don’t shy away from the spine-chilling lore — instead, position your house as a one-of-a-kind opportunity that’s worth a closer look.

Selling a haunted house doesn’t have to be a horror story. With the right mix of honesty, creativity, and marketing flair, your “spooky” listing could turn into a dream deal for the right buyer.

To go from haunted to sold, get in touch with our team directly by calling us at 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.

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