E
ric Albert, a veteran of the aluminum industry, made headlines last year when he allowed an overseas couple to rent his $60.2 million Newport Coast, California estate for two months at $250,000 a month before they put in a bid on the property. The couple ultimately purchased another house nearby through Albert's agents.

    This unusual request is becoming more common among high-end homebuyers who want to "test drive" properties before making multimillion-dollar commitments. Some sellers are agreeing to overnight stays or short-term leases, which can be beneficial for both parties. As Compass agent Ari Afshar notes, "If you can drive a car off a lot, why not test-drive a home?"

    In some cases, buyers are even getting free trials. New York-based Douglas Elliman agent McKenzie Ryan helped arrange a one-night stay in an empty Hudson Valley country house for a Manhattan couple who were eyeing the property. The couple tested utilities, listened to crickets at night, and gauged the light in the morning before deciding to purchase the property.

    Sellers are also extending invitations to prospective buyers. Retired teacher Connie Howell hosted a garage sale at her four-bedroom house in Holly Lake Ranch, Texas, and suggested that potential buyers spend the weekend. The visitors adored the place but ultimately decided against buying due to renovation costs.

    While some agents see this trend as a savvy sales strategy, others are more wary of liability concerns and odd experiences. Douglas Elliman's Ruthie Assouline notes that it's "Pandora's box for liabilities," while Coldwell Banker's Jade Mills calls the idea unusual.

    Despite these concerns, some buyers are willing to pay a premium for longer trials. John Serra, a New Jersey resident working with Elliman's Alejandro Sulser, hopes to rent a property in Florida for months before buying and is willing to pay a higher price for the privilege.