
While it may sound unusual, this home-selling ritual has been passed down for generations, and many sellers say it brought them peace of mind—and sometimes even a quicker sale.
Saint Joseph, long regarded as the patron saint of families and homes, has become connected to real estate through a folk practice where sellers place a small statue of him in the yard while saying a prayer or affirmation.
Over time, this ritual—known as the St. Joseph statue home selling tradition—has become a popular option for homeowners who are looking for hope and a little extra help while navigating the real estate market.
Whether you see it as a symbol of faith, a cultural tradition, or simply a way to stay optimistic, the practice remains a fascinating part of home-selling folklore.
The story is often traced back to the 1500s when St. Teresa of Ávila and her followers invoked St. Joseph’s help when searching for land. Eventually, the practice evolved into burying statues, a ritual that gained traction in the U.S. during the housing boom of the 20th century.
Today, you can even buy St. Joseph home selling kits online, complete with a statue, prayer card, and instructions. Some homeowners use them, while others simply enjoy reading about the tradition as part of the rich history of real estate.
Because this isn’t a formal religious rite, there isn’t one “correct” way to do it. Common approaches include:
Burying the statue near the “For Sale” sign in the front yard.
Placing it upside down or facing the street to symbolize that the home is ready for its next owner.
Keeping it in a flowerpot if you live in a condo or townhome.
Pairing the action with a hopeful affirmation or prayer.
Some homeowners prefer not to bury the statue at all, instead placing it indoors near a window or on a mantle. No matter how it’s done, the intent is the same: to bring optimism and positive energy into the selling process.
While there’s no guarantee that a statue alone will sell your house, many homeowners say the practice gave them confidence and comfort during an otherwise stressful time.
The truth is, the most reliable way to sell your home quickly is still through strategic pricing, thoughtful staging, and expert marketing by a trusted realtor. But traditions like the St. Joseph home selling statue ritual can add a meaningful, symbolic layer to the journey. Plus it’s fun!
If you’re looking for every possible advantage, trying the St. Joseph statue tradition may be a simple, low-cost way to boost your optimism while selling your house. Even if you see it as just a symbolic gesture, it can serve as a reminder to stay positive and proactive as you wait for the right buyer.
Selling your home is about more than finding a buyer—it’s about starting the next chapter of your life with confidence. Whether or not you choose to try the St. Joseph statue home selling ritual, combining tradition with the right strategy is always a smart move.
✨ If you’re preparing to sell your home in Kansas City, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit or the surrounding area, I’d love to help guide you through the process. As a local lender who knows the market, I can help you with everything you need to get started.
👉 Contact me today to discuss your home-selling goals and create a personalized plan that works for you.