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It is a dilemma that faces many relocation sellers especially.  The dilemma is “should they move and try to sell the house vacant or should they stay until the house sells?”   

We currently have a seller in Camarillo who is facing this question. 

With this in mind, we posed the question to the Trulia Voices community.  Within 24 hours, we had answers from Realtors across the country.  Their responses varied with ideas, motivation, financial ability, etc., but each answer focused on proper pricing and staging as the two key elements to getting a house sold  whether it was vacant or occupied.

We also found a very interesting article in the Los Angeles Times about selling a vacant house.  Check it out.

Bottomline:  the real estate community is divided on whether a house sells faster vacant or occupied.  We have seen where a seller’s furnishing detract from the house and the house would look better vacant.  We also know that new home builders spend thousands of dollars furnishing models.  If a vacant house shows like it has been abandoned, it is more apt to get a low-ball offer.  On the other hand, vacant houses are easy for Realtors to show and may get more showings. 

We believe the decision to sell vacant or occupied is case-by-case.  We have the experience to guide home sellers according to the current market conditions.  (Our sellers which we mentioned above have decided to stay until their house sells.)

What are your thoughts?  Did you have to move before your house sold?  Did you stage your house?   We would welcome your comments and concerns.