Real Estate Nightmares

Real Estate Nightmares

As Halloween approaches, we’re embracing the spooky spirit here at Boston Connect Real Estate but not with ghosts or goblins. This week’s episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable turned the spotlight on something far scarier: real estate nightmares.

From flooded basements to unexpected squatters, these are the kinds of stories every agent dreads but learns from. Co-hosts Melissa Wallace and Tracy Grady shared a few chilling tales from the South Shore real estate scene  and more importantly, how to prevent them from happening again.

When Copper Theft Turns into a Flood

Tracy recalled a transaction that started off smoothly until a call from the property caretaker brought nightmare news. The vacant home had been broken into, and thieves stole the copper piping, leaving the water running. When Tracy arrived, the basement had five feet of standing water. The good news? The buyers, who were planning a flip, stayed the course but it was a costly and chaotic cleanup.

Lesson learned:
If a property is vacant, secure it and shut off the water. Even better, have it professionally winterized to prevent damage and reduce risk. Vacant homes are vulnerable, and thieves often target listings that appear unoccupied.

The Squatter on the Roof

Another real estate horror story came from one of Boston Connect’s agents, who went to show a foreclosed home  only to discover a squatter barricaded inside a bedroom. When she arrived with her client, the man climbed out the window and hid on the roof. Thankfully, she didn’t enter the home alone and contacted the police immediately.

Lesson learned:
Realtor safety should always come first.
If you’re showing a vacant or foreclosed property, always:

• Wait for your client before entering.

• Let someone know where you are and when you’ll be done.

• Be aware of your exits and surroundings.

Realtors often announce open house times publicly making it essential to take precautions and, whenever possible, partner with another agent during showings.

When Divorces Spill into Real Estate

Not every nightmare is about crime or damage some are about emotionally charged transactions.
Melissa and Tracy discussed cases where sellers going through divorce left the home in disarray just before closing, forcing the agent to clean, coordinate item removals, and mediate between two parties who couldn’t communicate directly.

Lesson learned:
Divorce sales require clear, equal communication with both parties ideally in writing and copied to everyone involved. The agent’s role is to stay neutral, professional, and focused on ensuring both clients feel informed and represented fairly.

A Lighthearted Note: Halloween Fun at Boston Connect

Amid the spooky stories, Melissa also reminded listeners about Boston Connect’s annual Halloween contests:

• Jack-o’-Lantern Contest: Submit your best carved pumpkin (adult and kids’ categories).

• Pet Costume Contest: Open to all pets from dogs to turtles!

Participants can send entries to administration@bostonconnect.com or to their Boston Connect agent. Prizes include gift cards and pet goodie baskets, with winners voted for on Facebook.

It’s one of our favorite seasonal traditions a reminder that even when real estate gets scary, there’s always fun to be had in our community.

Final Thoughts: Every Nightmare Has a Lesson

As Tracy put it best:

“You think you’ve seen the worst transaction of your life… and then something else comes along.”

Every challenge whether it’s a burst pipe, a safety scare, or a difficult closing teaches valuable lessons. At Boston Connect Real Estate, our agents don’t just help clients buy and sell homes; we help them navigate the unexpected with professionalism, composure, and experience.

Because even in real estate, every nightmare can lead to a better ending.