A vacant house in California might look like an opportunity — but for most homeowners, it’s a ticking clock. Empty homes rack up property taxes, insurance costs, utility bills, and maintenance expenses every month they sit unsold. Even worse, they’re magnets for vandals, squatters, and code violations.
If you’ve got a property sitting empty and want to sell it quickly, this guide will show you the fastest and smartest ways to do it — from pricing strategies to selling as-is for cash.
For tips on keeping your empty property safe until it sells, check out our related post: How to Secure a Vacant Property in California.
Why Vacant Homes Are Harder to Sell
A house that’s been sitting empty tends to raise questions with buyers. Is there something wrong with it? Has it been neglected? These doubts often lead to low offers and longer days on market.
Here’s why:
- Maintenance issues become obvious. A little dust or peeling paint looks worse in an empty space.
- Security problems. Vacant homes can attract break-ins, squatters, and vandalism.
- Financing hurdles. Some lenders hesitate to finance homes that appear abandoned or need repairs.
- Emotional disconnect. Empty homes feel cold, making it harder for buyers to imagine living there.
Example: A family in Riverside listed their vacant home on the MLS for 90 days with no offers. After vandalism damage and rising carrying costs, they sold to a cash buyer who closed in 12 days — saving thousands in extra expenses.
Hidden Costs of Holding a Vacant Property
Owning an empty home in California can easily cost $1,500 to $3,000 per month in upkeep.
Here’s what that might include:
- Mortgage and property taxes
- Vacant-home insurance (usually higher than standard coverage)
- Utilities and lawn care
- HOA fees or city citations for neglect
- Repairs from weather damage or trespassing
How to Sell a Vacant House Fast
1. Price It Realistically from the Start
Overpricing is one of the biggest mistakes sellers make with vacant homes. A competitive price attracts serious buyers faster and keeps your property from sitting stale on the market. Compare recent sales of similar homes in your area and adjust for the home’s current condition.
If your home needs major work, consider pricing slightly below market to encourage multiple offers or investor attention.
2. Keep It Secure and Presentable
Even if no one lives there, curb appeal matters. Mow the lawn, clear debris, and add fresh mulch or flowers. Inside, dust and vacuum regularly to show buyers that the property has been cared for.
3. Stage It — or Use Virtual Staging
An empty home often looks smaller than it is. Simple staging with a few key pieces of furniture can help buyers imagine the potential. If physical staging isn’t an option, virtual staging is an affordable way to create appealing listing photos.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 82% of buyers say staging makes it easier to visualize a property as their future home — and staged listings typically sell faster.
4. Offer Incentives
If your listing has been sitting for more than a few weeks, you can speed things up by offering:
- A home warranty
- Seller-paid closing costs
- Flexible move-in dates
These small gestures can make a big difference, especially in a competitive market.
5. Sell As-Is to a Cash Buyer
If you want a truly fast, hassle-free sale, consider selling the home as-is to a cash buyer. This option skips showings, repairs, and bank delays entirely.
Benefits include:
- No cleaning or upgrades needed
- No inspection or appraisal contingencies
- Closing in as little as 7–14 days
Example: A retired couple in Bakersfield had a vacant home with roof damage. Instead of repairing it, they accepted a cash offer and closed in just 10 days — saving over $8,000 in ongoing expenses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Turning Off Utilities
Turning off electricity, plumbing, or HVAC in a vacant home can cause more harm than good. Buyers and inspectors need to confirm that all systems are functional before closing.
Mistake #2: Failing to Disclose Vacant Status
Sellers in California are required to disclose if the home has been vacant for an extended period. Transparency builds trust and prevents legal issues later. See the California Civil Code §1102 for full disclosure rules.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Maintenance
Even small signs of neglect — like weeds, leaky faucets, or peeling paint — can make a vacant house look abandoned. A few low-cost updates can dramatically improve buyer perception and sale price. According to HomeAdvisor’s Property Maintenance Guide, small fixes often lead to faster offers and fewer inspection issues.
Marketing Tips for Vacant Homes
- Hire a professional photographer for bright, appealing photos.
- Add warm lighting or natural decor to create an inviting atmosphere.
- Highlight selling points like “low maintenance” or “blank canvas.”
- Use video tours and social media to reach local buyers quickly.
Example: A Los Angeles seller filmed a simple walk-through of her vacant home and shared it online. Within five days, she received two solid offers — one from an investor and one from a family looking for a fixer.
Why Selling Fast Matters
The longer a home sits vacant, the more it costs in taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Beyond financial strain, extended vacancies can lead to:
Property deterioration from neglect or weather
Empty homes quickly develop issues like leaks, mold, or pest infestations when not maintained. Even small problems can escalate into expensive repairs over time.
Increased insurance risks
Insurance companies often charge higher premiums or reduce coverage on vacant properties. Some may even cancel a policy if the home sits empty too long.
Difficulty finding qualified buyers later
Homes that linger on the market tend to attract fewer buyers and lower offers. The longer it stays unsold, the more likely buyers assume something’s wrong with it.
By pricing realistically, keeping it secure, and choosing the right selling method, you can sell fast and protect your investment.stment.
Final Thoughts
Selling a vacant home in California doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the right plan — and possibly the right cash buyer — you can turn a liability into a quick, profitable sale.
At Mrs. Property Solutions, we buy vacant homes in any condition, all across California. No repairs, no cleaning, and no waiting months for the right offer.
If you’re tired of paying for an empty house, give us a call today — we’ll make you a fair, fast offer so you can move on with peace of mind.