A vacant property may look like a low-maintenance asset, but the longer it sits empty, the more it can quietly drain your wallet—and even lose value. Whether the home was inherited, previously rented, or simply left behind after relocating, the risks of holding onto a vacant house in 2026 are greater than ever.
At Results House Buyers, we work with homeowners every day who didn’t realize how expensive an empty house could become until the bills and problems started piling up. If you’re currently holding a vacant home, here’s what you need to know before it costs you more than you expected.
1. Vacant Homes Attract Unwanted Attention
One of the biggest dangers of leaving a property empty is that it becomes a target.
Common risks include:
- Break-ins & theft
- Vandalism & property damage
- Squatters
- Illegal dumping
Once this happens, repair costs skyrocket—and insurance rarely covers damage caused by trespassers or neglect. The longer a home sits empty, the more vulnerable it becomes.
2. Insurance Premiums Increase for Vacant Homes
Most homeowners don’t realize this, but standard insurance policies don’t cover vacant homes.
After 30–60 days of vacancy, many insurers:
❌ Cancel your coverage
❌ Raise your premiums
❌ Require a special (expensive) vacant home policy
These policies cost significantly more and offer less protection.
Selling sooner avoids that financial burden entirely.
3. Maintenance Costs Add Up Fast
A vacant home still needs:
- Lawn care
- Snow removal
- Utility payments
- Pest control
- Repairs and safety checks
Even small issues—like a leaking pipe or broken window—can go unnoticed and cause thousands in damage.
An unoccupied home doesn’t pause its aging. Every month costs money.
4. Property Taxes Don’t Stop Because a Home Is Empty
Whether the home is lived in or not, property taxes continue to stack up.
For many homeowners, this becomes a silent financial drain.
Holding onto a vacant property for months or years can cost more than the home is worth.
Selling earlier puts that money back into your pocket.
5. Vacant Homes Lose Market Value Over Time
Homes that sit empty deteriorate faster due to:
- Temperature fluctuations
- Mold or moisture issues
- Untreated minor repairs
- Lack of airflow
- Weather impact
When these issues build up, the property value drops—sometimes significantly.
If you’re planning to “wait for the right time to sell,” the home may lose value while you wait.
6. Squatters Can Turn Into a Legal Nightmare
Squatter laws vary by state, but in many areas, removing unauthorized occupants can take months, involve legal battles, and cost thousands in legal fees.
Prevention is cheaper than eviction.
And thebest prevention?
Not leaving a house vacant for long.
7. A Cash Buyer Can Help You Avoid All These Problems
Selling traditionally often takes months—and during that time, the property remains vulnerable and costly.
But selling directly to Results House Buyers gives you:
✔ A fast, fair cash offer
✔ No repairs required (we buy AS-IS)
✔ No cleaning needed
✔ No showings or agent fees
✔ A guaranteed closing date — as fast as 7 days
You can walk away from the financial burden and stop the monthly losses immediately.
8. The Longer You Wait, the More It Costs You
Many homeowners hold onto a vacant home hoping:
- The market will improve
- They’ll eventually rent it
- They’ll have time to fix it later
- A traditional buyer will pay more
But in most cases, the risk outweighs the reward.
Vacant homes rarely increase in value.
They usually cost money, time, and stress.
Selling sooner protects your equity.
Thinking About Selling Your Vacant Home?
You don’t need to fix anything.
You don’t need to clean.
You don’t even need to remove unwanted items.
At Results House Buyers, we make the process simple and stress-free.