Yes, you can sell a condemned home, but the process is more complex and requires careful navigation. A condemned property is one the city or county has deemed unsafe for occupancy, often due to structural issues, hazardous materials, severe neglect, or code violations. REALTOR® Marie‑Noelle Metseye helps sellers understand their legal obligations, repair options, investor strategies, and disclosure requirements so they can move forward safely and compliantly.

A condemned home is not necessarily worthless, it simply cannot be lived in until repairs or remediation bring it back up to code. Condemnation usually results from major safety concerns.

Common reasons for condemnation include:

• Structural instability or foundation failure

• Fire or severe water damage

• Dangerous mold, asbestos, or chemical hazards

• Long-term neglect or hoarding conditions

• Major code violations or illegal construction

• Hazardous electrical or plumbing systems

The city or county issues an official notice describing why the home was condemned and what must be done to lift the order. Marie‑Noelle helps sellers contact the appropriate building department to retrieve or interpret this documentation.

The notice typically outlines:

• Safety hazards present

• Required repairs or remediation

• Deadlines or reinspection requirements

• Whether entry into the property is restricted

Some condemned homes can be restored, others are better suited for as‑is investor sales or teardown opportunities. Marie‑Noelle provides a realistic market valuation to help determine whether repairs will lead to a profitable sale.

You may choose to:

• Complete required repairs to lift the condemnation

• Partially remediate issues (if allowed by the city)

• Sell the property as‑is to an investor or builder

• Market the property primarily for land value

Condemned homes rarely qualify for traditional financing. Lenders require safety and habitability, and condemned properties fail these tests.

Best buyer types include:

• Cash buyers

• Developers and builders

• Investors seeking value‑add opportunities

• Buyers using renovation loans (if structure is salvageable)

Washington State law requires sellers to disclose known defects, hazards, structural issues, environmental problems, and condemnation notices. Full transparency protects the seller from legal consequences and ensures buyers know exactly what they are taking on.

Condemned properties often have strong investor interest, especially in high‑demand cities like Everett, Lynnwood, Shoreline, Seattle, Bothell, and Renton. Marie‑Noelle analyzes land value, redevelopment potential, and comparable distressed sales to determine the best pricing strategy.

A condemned home requires specialized marketing. The goal is to reach investors, builders, and renovation‑focused buyers who understand the scope of the project.

Marie‑Noelle’s marketing approach includes:

• Clear, compliant descriptions of the home’s condition

• Professional exterior photography (interior access may be restricted)

• Highlighting land value and zoning potential

• Sharing city documentation and permit history

Condemned homes are more common in older neighborhoods or rural areas throughout Snohomish and King County. Because land values remain strong, these properties often attract fast investor offers, even if the structure must be repaired or removed.

A condemned home may seem unsellable, but with expert guidance, it can still be a valuable asset. Whether you repair, negotiate with the city, or sell as‑is, Marie‑Noelle Metseye helps owners move forward with confidence, clarity, and a legally compliant plan.

If you’re preparing to sell a condemned property in Snohomish or King County, contact Marie‑Noelle for a confidential consultation and strategic guidance.