Owning a hoarder house in Atlanta can present unique challenges and unexpected costs. These properties often come with significant issues that can be both financially and emotionally draining. This blog will cover six surprising things you need to know about owning a hoarder house in Atlanta, including potential costs, dangerous problems, and conditions under which a property may be condemned. Toward the end, we’ll explain how ATL Cash Home Buyers can offer a hassle-free solution by purchasing problem properties as-is.
1. Extensive Cleanup Costs
Professional Cleaning Services
Hoarder houses typically require extensive cleanup services to remove accumulated items, sanitize the property, and address any biohazards. Professional cleaners are often necessary to ensure the house is safe and habitable, especially if there are any signs of mold or other health hazardous bacteria present in the home.
Cost Estimate: $1,000 – $10,000+
Waste Removal
Disposing of the vast amount of waste generated by hoarding can be expensive. This includes hiring junk removal services or renting dumpsters, with costs varying based on the volume of items.
Cost Estimate: $500 – $5,000+
2. Structural Damage
Weight and Moisture Damage
The excessive accumulation of items can cause significant structural damage to a hoarder house. Floors, walls, and ceilings may suffer from weight strain and moisture damage, requiring costly repairs. Too many times we have seen boxes that have been sitting for years on carpeting in a room lead to water saturated carpeting, subflooring and even framing under the home. Not knowing what to look for can cost quite a penny.
Cost Estimate: $2,000 – $20,000+
Pest Infestations
Hoarder houses are prone to pest infestations, which can further damage the property’s structure and create unhealthy living conditions. Professional pest control services are often needed to address these issues. If you don’t address them, the next buyer will come in very low with their purchase price because of the uncertainty of having to deal with the pests removal.
Cost Estimate: $300 – $2,000+
3. Health Hazards
Mold and Mildew
Poor ventilation and moisture accumulation in hoarder houses create ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth. Mold remediation is essential to ensure the property is safe and free from health hazards. Mold can be a very serious issue that buyers take serious. You’ll need to make sure your hoarder house in Atlanta is properly remediated of such dangerous organisms.
Cost Estimate: $500 – $6,000+
Biohazards
Hoarder houses may contain biohazards such as animal waste, decaying food, and human waste. Addressing these hazards requires specialized cleaning and disposal services to prevent health risks.
Cost Estimate: $1,000 – $5,000+
4. Legal and Regulatory Issues
Code Violations
Hoarder houses often violate local building and health codes. Addressing these violations can involve costly fines, legal fees, and mandatory repairs to bring the property up to code.
Cost Estimate: $500 – $3,000+
Condemnation Risks
In severe cases, a hoarder house may be condemned by local authorities if it poses a significant health and safety risk. This can result in eviction and potential demolition of the property.
Conditions for Condemnation:
- Extreme structural damage
- Severe pest infestations
- Persistent health hazards
- Failure to comply with code violations
5. Emotional and Psychological Impact
Emotional Strain
Owning a hoarder house in Atlanta can be emotionally taxing, especially if the property belonged to a loved one. The process of cleaning out and repairing the house can bring up difficult emotions and memories making it tough to get through the process in a timely fashion.
Psychological Effects
Living in or dealing with a hoarder house in Atlanta can also have psychological effects, including stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to seek support from friends, family, or professionals when navigating these challenges.
6. Financial Burden
Ongoing Maintenance Costs
Even after initial cleanup and repairs, hoarder houses often require ongoing maintenance to prevent future issues. This can include regular pest control, mold inspections, and structural assessments.
Cost Estimate: $1,000 – $3,000+ annually
Reduced Property Value
Hoarder houses typically have reduced property value due to their condition and the stigma associated with hoarding. This can make it challenging to sell the property at a fair market price.
How ATL Cash Home Buyers Can Help
At ATL Cash Home Buyers, we understand the unique challenges and unexpected costs associated with owning a hoarder house in Atlanta. As real estate investors, we specialize in purchasing properties as-is, meaning you don’t need to worry about cleanup, repairs, or legal issues. Here’s how we can assist:
- Quick and Fair Offers: We provide fast and competitive offers, allowing you to sell your property without delay.
- No Cleanup Required: We buy houses in any condition, so you don’t need to spend time or money on cleaning out the hoarder house.
- Streamlined Process: Our straightforward buying process ensures a smooth and stress-free transaction.
By choosing ATL Cash Home Buyers, you can avoid the complications and expenses of dealing with a hoarder house, making it easier to move on from your property quickly and efficiently.
Owning a hoarder house in Atlanta comes with numerous challenges, from extensive cleanup costs and structural damage to health hazards and legal issues. Understanding these surprising aspects can help you better prepare for the task ahead. However, if you prefer a hassle-free solution, ATL Cash Home Buyers offers a convenient option by purchasing hoarder houses as-is. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you sell your hoarder house without the stress and financial burden. 404-439-9984
