That is a really good answer. Once you have been burned by a generous act you won't do it again. Remember, no good deed goes unpunished.

I agree, not a good idea. They will just have to wait a little longer. When I bought my condo, the listing agent allowed me to move in a few days before escrow closed. He warned me not to get injured! Of course, I took my dog out for a walk and fell off the step! I sprained my ankle but I never even told him.  Didn't want him to worry, but I learned a big lesson that day.

If I'm representing the buyer and they ask, I will ask the listing agent.  If I'm the listing agent, I will ask the sellers (and recommend against it).  Though, if for some reason they want o agree to this I send them to a lawyer for a pre-occupancy agreement.

Do not do it!!!!

that's the smart answer, but there are situations where it's necessary and a use and occupancy would be the extreme case.... the second best is an agreement to put their personal property in the house but not sleep there and not have a key....

The answer is always 'no.' I don't even bother to approach the seller with this request anymore. Even if the seller were to say 'yes,' it's just not smart.

Hi Frank -- as you stated, my suggestion/advice is to say No but I present the question to the sellers.  It's their decision.  I present the pros(as if there are any) and the cons(numerous and far-reaching).   

A move-in prior to closing is a bad idea. When I encounter a buyer who wants to do this, I share a few past horror stories with them.

Frank, Years ago, I was permitted to move my family of five, lock, stock and barrel into a home BEFORE and WITHOUT a written contract, and without a single dollar of good faith money.  The seller was a local insurance agent, and knew me as a former minister in the community; but he was braver than I would be.  Had roles been reversed (experiencing what I have over the past thirty years),  I may have accomodated him personally, but not a stranger!

A wise seller will pick up the phone and discuss potential leagal issuses with an attorney, and  realize that Murphy may be moving in with the buyer. "IF it can go wrong, it will" not only applies to appliance & plumbing failures; but mortgage loans, employment, medical issues, etc. SELLER BEWARE!!!

Mine is no because of the legal liability and because of the possibility of the deal not closing

Occasionaly.  I prefer not to do this...maybe into a garage or shed with some boxes of personal stuff.

Frank, as with you a "NO" is usually the answer.  On occassions a rent back may be asked for but asking for a possible can of worms in doing so.  Mark

We do not want any liability issues, Mr. Buyer.

It is not allowed in Texas and I have not found a builder yet that will allow it. Although I had a realtor ask me if her clients could have an exception and told me to ask my boss and my boss told me to tell her no and tell that comes from my boss! SO NO WAY!

I've done seller rent-backs before but never have I had a buyer move in prior to close.