We used to call them clutter bugs when I first started in this business.  Today we refer to them as hoarders.  A hoarder is a person who acquires possessions that appear to be useless or of limited value and fail to discard of them. Consequently clutter accumulates beyond control. 

This growing problem has become quite a challenge for REALTORS.  I have dealt with this situation on numerous occasions.  Recently I sold a hoarder home in Glendale on Chevy Chase.  This time I represented the buyer and I had many concerns because the home could not be thoroughly inspected.  I was also concerned about whether or not the owner and all of his stuff would be out of the at close of escrow. 

I voiced my concerns to my client and recommended that we structure our offer so that the seller had 10 days after close of escrow to get all of his belongings out.  We also held $10,000 of the seller’s proceeds in escrow so that in the event he did not remove all of his “clutter” he would release the proceeds to my client and she would then take on the responsibility of hauling everything out.  Fortunately things worked out for all parties concerned. 

Having dealt with many hoarders, I have learned is that they need to be handled in a very delicate manner.  Hoarders typically have serious emotional problems and can become very angry when forced to get rid of their possessions.  Need help with a hoarder?  Call me!

At this time of year I would like to remind everyone that in spite of the fact that we are dealing with such tough economic times, there are always others who are less fortunate.  It is estimated that over 51,000 people are homeless throughout Los Angeles County alone and that number is growing at a very rapid rate!

This year the LA Mission is celebrating 75 years of providing help and hope to those in need.  If you would like to make a difference this year by making a donation simply click here.  You may also make a difference by volunteering your time.  There are lots of opportunities to choose from, click here for more info.  Remember, every little bit makes a BIG difference!