Housing prices in Taiwan are constantly rising. Due to this, some buyers are considering purchasing real estate associated with past deaths, as such homes can cost significantly less than standard properties.
These houses are called 'Xiong Zhai' in the local dialect. Typically, a person died in these residences due to violent or distressing circumstances.
According to reports, the more unusual or brutal the death is considered, the lower the price of the property may be. In some cases, these houses are sold at a discount of up to fifty percent from the market value.
Despite Taiwan's booming economy, which showed a 14% increase in the first half of 2026 thanks to the development of artificial intelligence and the semiconductor industry, housing affordability remains a difficult challenge for all citizens. This is why some buyers decide to ignore the social and religious concerns associated with the property, opting for a more budget-friendly option.
However, purchasing such houses involves difficulties, especially regarding bank lending. Financial institutions are reluctant to provide loans for such properties because if the buyer is unable to repay the loan, reselling the property later may prove difficult.
Despite Taiwan being a major center for technology and semiconductors, traditional spiritual beliefs persist here. People who purchase 'Xiong Zhai' often perform special religious rituals before moving in. The goal of these rituals is to expel any presumed negative energy from the house and pray for the peace of the deceased's soul.
In the opinion of those who adhere to spiritual views, these ceremonies are conducted to cleanse the dwelling and ensure that previous events do not negatively affect the new residents.