It’s Friday the 13th, and while some may shy away from making big decisions on a day filled with superstition, we’re here to uncover some killer real estate lessons inspired by Jason Voorhees! Let’s dive into a few valuable takeaways from Friday the 13th that real estate agents can use to avoid any nightmares at the closing table.
1. Always Talk to the Neighbors
One of the most iconic lessons from Crystal Lake? The locals always know what’s up. If any of the camp counselors had taken the time to chat with the talkative diner regulars or the local loon, they might have learned that there was something seriously wrong with the place—something much scarier than just a fixer-upper.
In real estate, talking to the neighbors is a must. They’ll provide insight into the area that no listing or showing can, whether it’s the loud train that runs at night or a seasonal flooding issue. Ignoring the local scoop could lead your clients into a disaster worse than any horror movie.
2. Read the Seller’s Disclosure
The whole Friday the 13th franchise started because a young Jason drowned due to negligent camp counselors—setting off a murderous rampage by his mother. Tragic backstories like this don’t just belong in horror films; they’re also a crucial part of the seller’s disclosure.
While the likelihood of uncovering a haunted past may be slim, reviewing the seller’s disclosure can reveal plenty of deal-breaking facts like structural issues, mold, or even recent flood damage. Encourage clients to read it thoroughly, so they don’t face any unexpected horrors after move-in.
3. How Much Isolation Can You Handle?
Crystal Lake is picturesque by day but a horror show by night, thanks to its eerie isolation. The long, deserted roads, lack of neighbors, and spotty phone service made it the perfect setting for slasher carnage.
When helping clients choose a property, it’s crucial to consider how much isolation they can handle. A remote home might seem ideal for a getaway, but limited access to essential services, especially during emergencies, could become a nightmare.
4. Home Inspections Save Lives
In Crystal Lake, spotty electricity was always going out at the worst possible moments, leaving terrified counselors in the dark. If only they’d had a proper home inspection to check the wiring!
In the real world, home inspections are a vital part of the buying process. They can flag potential problems with a property—like faulty electrical systems or structural damage—before they turn into bigger, costly issues. It’s better to uncover the frightful facts during the inspection than after closing!
5. Beef Up Security Before You Settle In
Throughout Friday the 13th, victims ran from Jason, locking flimsy doors that barely slowed him down. What they needed was solid security. In real estate, securing a new home is just as important.
Before settling into any property, changing the locks, reinforcing doors, and checking window latches should be the first priority. A security system is a great investment to keep the new homeowners feeling safe and sound, no hockey masks necessary.
At LoKation, we’re committed to avoiding any real real estate horrors (like broker splits, caps, or hidden fees). You can rest easy knowing that with LoKation, your experience will be more treat than trick!