Early occupancy occurs when a Buyer moves into the home prior to closing.  Although this practice is not recommended, it may be necessary depending on the buyer’s needs and seller’s willingness.  If, for example, the home is vacant and the purchase contract has been negotiated as well as the loan approved, the seller may agree to this arrangement.  If the buyer asks for early occupancy, the seller must heed the listing agent’s advice to complete and sign the necessary documents.  These documents are designed to legally protect the seller by establishing rules of how the property must be maintained, establishing a daily or monthly rent amount owed by the buyer and determining penalties incurred by the buyer should he/she fail to maintain the property or default on the closing.

It is possible that the yard sign and lockbox be removed during early occupancy but the listing agent may insist on keeping the home in the MLS until closing.  Special showing instructions will be included in the listing at that time.