The truth about stigmatized properties in Vancouver real estate

Every October I get the same question: If a house is haunted, do you actually have to tell buyers?

It may sound like a Halloween joke, but in Vancouver real estate it is a real legal and psychological issue. In British Columbia, these homes are known as stigmatized properties, and while the ghosts might be imaginary, the stigma can have a real impact on market value.

What counts as a stigma?

It is not about a broken pipe or a leaky roof. It is about the story that comes with the home. Sometimes that story makes buyers pause before putting in an offer.

Here are some common examples:
• A death or suicide on the property
• A violent crime or traumatic event
• Reports of paranormal activity or a haunted house reputation
• A history of illegal activity such as a grow-op or drug lab

Even if the home is safe and well maintained, its reputation can affect how long it stays on the market and how much it sells for.

Do sellers have to say anything?

In British Columbia, the law focuses on material and physical defects, not psychological or reputational ones. That means a seller is not legally required to disclose a haunting, a death, or a crime unless the buyer directly asks. The Property Disclosure Statement does not include those questions.

However, if a buyer does ask and the seller or agent avoids or hides the truth, that can lead to problems later. It is not only about legality. It is about trust.

Why it matters for Vancouver sellers and buyers

As a Vancouver Realtor, I have seen how a home with a spooky story can make some buyers hesitate. I have also seen how the right approach, honest language, and thoughtful presentation can turn that same property into one people are excited about.

Perception shapes value.

Sometimes the best strategy is to tell the story honestly. A home with character can attract the right buyer, someone who appreciates its history rather than fears it.

If your home has a story, do not panic. The key is in how you frame it. Clear up rumors, highlight renovations, and focus on the lifestyle it offers today. There is always a way to shift the narrative.

And if the lights flicker during a showing, we will just call that ambience. 🎃

Selling a home with a haunted past or a spooky reputation?
Let’s make sure the only thing that scares buyers is how fast it sells.