10 Haunted Houses Available for Sale – Happy Halloween

The following homes for sale are some of the spookiest on the market, as gathered by TopTenRealEstate.com.

10. Ozzie the Ghost
Some people believe the Ozzie & Harriet home is haunted, but of course in Hollywood where creativity is the norm, there will always be creative gossip. If we had to pick a ghost, charming Ozzie would be a pretty nice guy to have around.

This traditional 5,813sf home was built in 1916 and was the set for The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet that ran from 1952 to 1966, the longest running TV show until The Simpsons recently topped it. Located on almost a half acre, the home consists of 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. The house is very private at the end of a cul-de-sac and is gated. The grounds contain a guest house, separate office and pool. The interior has period details throughout and the home is ready to move into as is or can be renovated at the new owners‘ option. If you’re extremely lucky, maybe you’ll see Ozzie happily puttering around the yard, though we wouldn’t suggest you hold your breath. Priced at $4,245,500.
Deal Source: hauntedhouses.com

9. Abandoned Ohio Mansion
Ghosts might be afraid to go anywhere near Mike Tyson, but it looks like something very scary happened at Tyson’s former Ohio mansion. The home is complete with a spooky moss covered indoor swimming pool, a massive trashed living room, holes punched through walls, and rusty tiger cages. The boxer lived here for a period in the 1990s and it has sat abandoned ever since. Now on the market, possibly many of the problems have since been resolved, though the agent is clear about the buyer needing to return it to its former “luster.“

On a very private 60 acres of open and wooded land that adjoins a golf course, this almost 10,000sf property in rural Ohio has 5 bedrooms, 7.5 baths and large indoor pool. There is also a separate guard house with another 4-5 additional bedrooms. Grounds have paved walking paths, a basketball court, large decks and . . . large animal cages. We suggest a large Halloween party before renovations begin. No decorating will be involved. Priced at $1,300,000, tiger cages included.
Deal Source: realliving.com

8. $15 Million LA Haunted House?
Sitting vacant for over 16 years unfinished, this house was said to be plagued by alien spacecraft, sitting on top of an Indian burial ground, beloved by gangs, addicts and Satanists. The butt of the rumors have become urban legends, and the house’s history has even become a storyline on a “Law and Order” episode. It is currently for sale at the listed price of $15,200,000. Sitting on 22 acres of the last undeveloped land in LA, the 9,800sf house has 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, a 200 bottle wine cellar, six-car garage, stone floors and a pool with Jacuzzi that has a view over the acreage, the city and the Pacific. From the windows you can see snow-capped mountains and the Hollywood sign. There is a 24/7 armed guard on duty to keep bad spirits away and prevent damage. Though unlikely that aliens will land or that spirits will arise from some unproven Indian burial ground, the property will likely entice a developer attracted to the land. Ghostly rumors, however, will likely be around for many years to come.
Deal Source: redfin.com

7. John Brown Hanging Site
In historic Charles Town, WV, where Abolitionist Brown met his demise in 1859, 30 years later this grand Victorian was built on the site of his hanging. The land on which it sits was owned by one of the men that captured Brown and who later built a home here. Though the house itself has never been considered to be haunted, its location is one of the most historic in the country. The craftsmanship both in the exterior brick work, turret and widow’s walk and in the interior millwork sets this house apart, making it the most notable piece of architecture in Charles Town. The 4-story, 7,037sf home has 5 bedrooms, 5 baths Tiffany glass, handmade shutters and exceptional mantels.

Of John Brown, historian David Reynolds contends that “not only was Brown ‘right’ on slavery and other racial issues of his day, but that his conduct—in causing the Civil War to begin in 1861 rather than, say, 1881–potentially saved hundreds of thousands of lives that could have been lost in a war fought in a time of much greater population and more deadly weaponry and, at the same time, might well have spared an entire generation of African-Americans the humiliating experience of human bondage.” Asking $1,200,000.
Deal Source: historichometeam.com

6. Evil Clown Haunted House
This is either the chance to out-do your neighbors once and for all, or for a town to become known for having the most spectacular Halloween event for miles around! All you Jaycees and civic organizations – heads up! We’ve all seen ads to come to the Haunted House everywhere you look around this time of year, but did you ever stop to think from where they actually come? We didn’t either, but since it’s almost Halloween 2011, we thought we’d do a little digging on all things Halloween and this is what we found!

There are companies that consult, design and build custom Halloween venues, or you can rent, but here’s a clever company that makes it possible for you to buy a used haunted house kit! (Or how many ways can you say Prefab?) This entire mobile haunted house comes in a complete package and even offers optional add-ons. This scary package includes Evil Clown Town, Alcatraz Prison and Hot Seat electric chair and so much more! It will put Your Town, USA on the map. For $130,000, you can buy the Frightmare Package through the Texas-based Hauntrepreneurs®, a broker for used Halloween Attractions. The package comes complete with production equipment such as tents, lighting and a sound system, fog machine, effect lights, costumes, emergency lighting and exit signs. It’s the perfect Halloween haunting.
Deal Source: hauntrepreneurs.com

5. Psycho Murder Victim’s House
What do you immediately think of when you hear the name “Janet Leigh?” “Psycho,” of course! You picture her in the shower and you picture that dark Victorian horror of a house on top of the hill overlooking the Bates Motel. Right? We all do! Produced by Alfred Hitchcock, it was a well-scripted, well-cast horror film, with scenes that would terrify even the most avid horror lover. . . the Victorian house in the film was likely the scariest movie house of all time.

Now Janet Leigh’s own former home is for sale and far from being a horror. It has understated clean architectural lines, paved car park, privacy, gated entrance and no ghosts anywhere in sight. Styled in Contemporary Transitional, the design is timeless both inside and out. The perfect home for an avid art collector, the floors are ebony and the walls white, offering exceptional display options. The layout is perfect for entertaining as the public rooms spill out to the patios and stunning views over Hollywood and out over the Pacific. At just over half an acre, the 4,432sf home has 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, pool and tennis courts. This property will give your mind a new vision when hearing the name “Janet Leigh” and all thoughts of horror will be long forgotten! Asking $3,950,000.
Deal Source: 1625summitridge.com

4. America’s Scariest Haunted House
Not for the faint of heart, this 100-year-old farm house near Olean, NY, is very well- known to locals and to all paranormal investigators across the country. Even the History Channel featured it in a special. The house has a history of frightening off its past owners since the 1850s with its 12 or more not-so-friendly ghosts who are frequently seen in their entirety by neighbors, friends, guests, researchers, paranormal investigators and the clergy. In her book, “Echoes of a Haunting,” by one-time resident, Clara M. Miller, she explained the feeling about the house as a build up of pressure under an umbrella that finally releases in the form of activity from these clearly visible spirits. Clara wrote her book from her daily diary and goes into great detail about events that happened there and some she felt might have been related to the house years after moving to Oregon.

Though obviously needing a total renovation, there are many who will be hugely excited about its availability. On 8 acres, the house presently consists of a kitchen, bath, living room, 3 bedrooms and two enclosed porches and a large spring-fed pond. Many seem to think it would make a great research facility for paranormal researchers or equally as an attractive single-family home after renovation…if you have nerves of steel! 100 + year old farm house & stage-coach stop has 12 ghosts. Asking $289,000.
Deal Source: wnyhauntedhouse.com

3. The Dean Martin Ghost of Edina, MN
According to their story, Dean Martin stayed at this Minnesota home in 1970 when he was filming the movie “Airport” and he never left. They believe that “Dino” is just one of a number of spirits that haunt this house, which was built near an old Indian funeral site. The owners report numerous incidents of flying tables and beds, exploding water pipes, invisible people and dogs, pounding noises, images of a bloody face in their mirror, missing objects, and a grotesque, hairless cat with glowing eyes and a human’s smile. The spirit activity was noticed to increase when the family was preparing to move. The son seems to feel that the most violent spirit got in due to him and his friends using the Ouija board in the basement, as the violent activity began shortly after that. It is probably no surprise that the home is now vacant and has been on the market since May.
Deal Source: squidoo.com

2. Haunted Horse Farm
Don’t expect to see ghostly horses grazing the fields or be so lucky as to have a ghostly farmhand stacking hay bales. Instead, turn your attention to your digital camera equipment. For some reason, the normally elusive ghosties on this farm love to have their pictures taken! They will pop up in your pastoral shots and in your family videos and have made themselves apparent over 90 times in the last nine years in and around the farm. They show themselves as orbs, darting lights and misty forms when you’re trying to capture that perfect sunset or new foal. Having enjoyed writing about her experiences on this property as a paranormal author, the owner is willing to pass this farm on to the next ghost buster to enjoy.

This 5-acre, fully fenced farm consists of two barns and a 2002 constructed 3-bedroom, 2-bath house of approximately 1,150sf and is selling furnished. Fields are well-maintained grazing land in the horse country of Lexington, Kentucky. There have been five paranormal investigations in the past two years – all had positive findings. The next chill running up a spine could be yours! Asking $120,000.
Deal Source: sdparanormal.com

1.New Orleans Haunted B&B
While most going businesses want to keep their ghosts in the closet so as not to frighten off clientele, the Magnolia Mansion has cleverly built its business around multiple ghosts and wish its ghosts would invite their friends! Here the ghosts are friendly with a sense of humor, where ghostly children tease you by moving things around during the night to watch your reaction the next morning. There are reports of a ghostly maid who will tuck you in at night, a child who walks the halls and a bearded man who spends his time downstairs.

Designed by architect James H. Calrow and completed in 1858 from fortunes made from cotton, Magnolia Mansion is one of New Orleans most photographed homes in the Historic Garden District and considered to be one of the most important examples of Antebellum architecture. It was also the headquarters of the American Red Cross during World War II. A raised Greek revival mansion of approximately 13,369sf, there are 13 bedrooms and 14 full baths that could be changed back into a single-family estate.

A perfect place to hold your “Spooktacular Gatherings” and “Ghostly Galas.“ Asking price is $3.2M.

Article adapted from RISMedia: http://rismedia.com/2011-10-30/happy-halloween-the-top-10-haunted-homes-for-sale/

SOLD – 1622 Chestnut Street, Anna Texas

A great place to call home at a superb price! Very livable floor plan, split bedrooms, wide entry, separate dining – island kitchen open to living area. Large open backyard with retaining wall for privacy. Within walking distance to Elementary. Community pool and playground – fast access to 75, dining choices and grocery stores.

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  • Oak Hollow Estates
  • 3 Bedrooms
  • 2 Baths
  • 2 Car Garage
  • Approx. 1,369 SF

 

 

 

This home has a nice wide entry leading into a great floor plan.  The family room has a wall of windows that view the backyard.  The kitchen is open to both the living and dining areas and is truly the heart of the home.  The kitchen is lined with attractive honey-colored cabinetry with a center island workspace and a pantry.  A separate dining area provides space for everyone around the table away from the bustle of the home.

The master bedroom is a relaxing retreat away from the other two bedrooms with a walk-in closet and private bath.  The master bath features a large garden tub that provides quiet sanctuary after a long day.

The backyard has a spacious grassy area, open patio and a small rock ledge giving you space to get outside on cool, fall evenings.

The Oak Hollow community is close to the growing Anna amenities and provides quick access to 75 and Highway 5 for quick travel.  Oak Hollow HOA also offers a community pool and playground area for residents. It is a short walk to the exemplary rated Rattan Elementary and you are within a couple minutes of the new grocery store and fast food dining options.

[map id=”map8045″ w=”545″ h=”400″  z=”16″ address=”1622 Chestnut Street, Anna Texas” marker=”yes” infowindow=”<span style=font-size:18px;color:red>1622 Chestnut Street, Anna Texas</span>]

Is Staging a Necessity?

Is staging a necessity? The smart answer is that it is not only a necessity it is vital in today’s buyers market.  Many buyers cannot envision how a property can be decorated or used, but when a home is beautifully staged buyers perceive a higher value to that property.  In fact the website HomeGain conducted a survey that found that home staging resulted, on average, in a $1,780 price increase.

A few staging tips:

Start at the Curb – At a minimum, lawns should be freshly mowed, flowerbeds clean and adding some color is increases curb appeal.  Freshening up the door area where buyers will wait while an agent opens the door is your true first impression to sell an interested buyer.

Get Rid of Clutter – Pick one closet, room or area at a time and critically scrutinize each item.  Forget hanging onto items for a garage sale just pick a favorite charity and donate it – it will save time and energy that you can focus on preparing your home to sell.  If spaces still look cramped, start prepacking and storing the additional items.

Watch where your eye goes – Concentrate where your eyes go when you enter a space.  If the eye is drawn to the chipped paint on the door then repair it. If you see the sloppy paint job you always meant to touch up do it.

Clean, clean and clean it again – We all realize that our homes may not be spotless in our day to day lives, but when it comes to selling clean is expected and will give you the most return for your time and money.  Again go room by room or hire cleaners for a day to get the final white glove clean including those baseboards.

Bring in fresh eyes and/or a professional – call up your friend, you know the one that will be brutally honest with you.  You can also always contact a real estate agent that knows the market and how to position your home to sell it (not just list it).  As a real estate agents, The Marr Team can give tips on staging basics; but when needed our sellers are offered a complementary 2-hour staging consultation with a professional stager to get your home ready to compete in the real estate beauty contest.

The way we live in a home is emensely different than how we must setup a home to sell – I know it took me three months to do all those little things done around the house, get rid of the clutter and get it staged, but when it sells in only 19 days with multiple offers it is worth the extra time! Let us get you ready to go on the market – call us today even if it may be a few months until you are ready to sell.  We can advise you on what repairs, upgrades or preparations will get you the most money for your efforts.

 

 

 

Handy and Money-Saving Phone Apps

I am always so amazed at how quickly I have come to depend on my iphone and not just for phone calls – for helping me organize my business and home life too.

Here are a few of the handiest apps I use:

COUPON SHERPA: Coupon Sherpa offers both in-store coupons (just show the entry at checkout) as well as exclusive deals just for users. You can search by category or store name, locate merchants closest to you, and even e-mail coupons to your friends.  For me it means always having a 40% off coupon at Michaels. Cost: FREE

KEY RING: Key Ring is the app that “brings ’em all together”.  Use it to scan and store your existing loyalty cards, enroll in new loyalty programs, and access exclusive coupons and discounts.  For me it means not having to dig through my wallet to find the right loyalty card at the grocery store and my husband has access to them too. Another bonus is joining new loyalty programs like the On the Border Club Cantina for more coupons and offers.  Cost: FREE

CELLFIRE: Cellfire provides valuable savings on groceries, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. Get access and use offers from your PC and/or mobile phone. For me it means printing, clipping, or forgetting less coupons. Cost: FREE

GROCERY GADGET:  A useful shopping list app does more than just remind you what to buy. It can hold multiple lists for multiple stores, allows you to compare prices, organizes your list by categories for faster shopping trips, syncs with multiple gadgets and your computer.  For me it means always being able to add to the list even when you aren’t at home and organize shopping at several different stores where I can get the best prices for the items we need.  For me it means saving valuable time in the grocery store. Cost: $3.99

Do you have apps that have helped make your life easier too? Share them with us. Or if you need The Marr Team to help make your home selling, buying, leasing or building process easier we can do that too!

4 Housing Upgrades that Don’t Pay

Many homeowners are not deciding to sell in this current market, but instead are looking at updating or upgrading their current homes.  When upgrading, home owners should seek features that aren’t only desirable to them but also what will add value to the home when it comes time for resale.

Here’s some general advice from Bankrate.com to help guide you as you consider any changes in your home to determine if it would increase your home’s value.

These items may not be worth the expense:

Too high maintenance. Many buyers aren’t looking for homes that require too much upkeep and maintenance. The article notes in-ground swimming pools as a prime example of a high-maintenance feature that may turnoff many buyers as they look at the upkeep of it as too costly and too much work.

Over-the-top. Home owners don’t necessarily want to have the most upgraded home on the block. That’s because when they go to sell it, they likely won’t make all their money back on the upgrades if the home becomes overvalued for the neighborhood. So while granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and all the top finishes are always an attraction, home owners need to ask whether such features are too much for their neighborhood, particularly if the other homes just have moderately priced cabinets or features.

Too personal. Too much customized design choices, such as a Tuscan theme taken to the extreme, may turn off buyers or attract low-ball offers at times of resale because buyers who may have differing tastes see the decor and finishes as something they have to do-over. “Any time you deviate, no matter what the improvement is, from what is a fairly traditional, single-family house, you run the risk of improving in a fashion that will not lend itself to additional dollars,” Miami real estate pro Moe Veissi told Bankrate.com.

Unpopular. Ensure that the change in your home will not only be a good fit for your family and lifestyle, but will be wanted by traditional buyers.

If you are thinking of making changes, but don’t know how much value you are adding to your home, call The Marr Team – we will give you honest numbers and advice on your project and your home’s value.