San Lorenzo Case Study: Helping Homeowners Sell a Hoarder House As-Is

Property Snapshot

Address: 15**7 San Lorenzo, CA
Property Type: Single-family home
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Square Footage: Approximately 1,000 square feet
Year Built: 1944
Seller Situation: Homeowners struggling to keep up with bills and needing a fast, certain sale
Property Condition: Hoarder house in poor condition with belongings throughout the interior and exterior of the property
Closing Timeline: Went into contract on September 9 and closed on October 6
Post-Closing Occupancy: Sellers stayed for 60 days after closing at no cost
Renovation Scope: Full interior and exterior renovation, including the kitchen, bathroom, flooring, and landscaping

The Situation

The homeowners had fallen behind financially and were having a difficult time keeping up with their bills. The stress of maintaining the property and their financial situation had become overwhelming, and they decided it was time to sell and move on to the next chapter of their lives.

The home itself had become a hoarder house over the years. Items had accumulated throughout both the inside and outside of the property, making it difficult to maintain and nearly impossible to prepare for a traditional sale.

In addition to needing a quick sale, the homeowners also needed flexibility. They wanted access to funds upfront and needed extra time after closing to make their transition as smooth as possible.

Their goals were simple:

• Sell the property quickly.
• Avoid making repairs or cleaning out the home.
• Receive certainty that the sale would close.
• Have additional time to move after closing.
• Avoid paying commissions, fees, or closing costs.

The Challenges

Selling a hoarder house can be difficult for several reasons.

The sellers were concerned about:

• Cleaning out years of accumulated belongings.
• Spending money on repairs and updates before listing.
• Coordinating contractors and preparing the property for sale.
• Finding a traditional buyer willing to purchase the property in its current condition.
• Needing access to funds before moving.
• Finding another place to live while dealing with financial stress.

Many buyers are unwilling to purchase homes in poor condition or properties filled with unwanted belongings. This can significantly limit the pool of buyers and often leads to lengthy listing periods and uncertain outcomes.

Why the Sellers Chose R&H Distressed Properties

The homeowners contacted R&H Distressed Properties because they needed certainty and speed.

They appreciated that we:

• Buy houses as-is.
• Purchase homes in poor condition and hoarder houses.
• Allow homeowners to leave unwanted belongings behind.
• Cover all closing costs and fees.
• Provide access to funds upfront when needed.
• Offer flexible move-out timelines.
• Deliver a straightforward and transparent process.

Most importantly, they wanted the peace of mind that came from knowing the property would sell and that they would have the time and flexibility needed to move comfortably.

Our Solution

After learning about the homeowners’ situation, we made an offer that allowed them to sell the property without making repairs, cleaning out the house, or worrying about additional expenses.

We purchased the property exactly as it sat.

To make the transition easier, we covered all closing costs and fees, provided access to funds upfront, and allowed the homeowners to remain in the property for 60 days after closing at no cost.

This gave the sellers the certainty and breathing room they needed to move forward without unnecessary stress.

Timeline of the Sale

September 9: Went into contract.

October 6: Closed on the property.

60 Days After Closing: Sellers completed their move and transitioned into their next chapter.

February 19: Property listed for sale after a complete renovation.

What Happened After Closing

Once the sellers moved out, we began a full renovation of the property.

The home received extensive improvements, including:

• Fully remodeled kitchen
• Updated bathroom
• New flooring throughout
• Interior paint
• Exterior paint
• Exterior improvements and landscaping

Our goal was to transform a distressed property into a beautiful home that would serve another local family for years to come.

The Results

For the Sellers

• Sold without making repairs.
• Left unwanted belongings behind.
• Received funds upfront.
• Paid no closing costs or fees.
• Stayed in the property for 60 days after closing.
• Received certainty and a straightforward process.

For the Neighborhood

• A distressed hoarder house was completely renovated.
• A neglected property was transformed and improved.
• A renovated home was returned to the community for a new family to enjoy.

Key Takeaways for San Lorenzo Homeowners

If you own a home in San Lorenzo and are feeling overwhelmed by repairs, financial hardship, or years of accumulated belongings, you still have options, even if:

• The property needs significant work.
• The home is filled with unwanted items.
• You need funds quickly.
• You need extra time after closing.
• You want to avoid the uncertainty of listing with an agent.

At R&H Distressed Properties, we regularly purchase homes in difficult situations and work with homeowners to create solutions that fit their unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell a hoarder house in San Lorenzo without cleaning it out?

Yes. We regularly purchase hoarder houses and allow homeowners to leave behind unwanted belongings.

Do I need to make repairs before selling?

No. We buy houses exactly as they are, regardless of condition.

Can I stay in the property after closing?

In many cases, yes. We often work with homeowners who need additional time after closing to move.

Do I have to pay commissions or closing costs?

No. We cover all standard closing costs, and there are no realtor commissions or hidden fees.

Can I receive funds before moving out?

Depending on the situation, we may be able to provide access to funds upfront to help make your transition easier.

Need to Sell a Hoarder House in San Lorenzo?

Whether you’re struggling with bills, overwhelmed by years of accumulated belongings, or simply need a fast and certain sale, R&H Distressed Properties can help. We buy houses in San Lorenzo as-is, no matter the condition, and make the process simple, flexible, and stress-free.