The real estate market has changed in recent years. For example, the old adage “location, location, location” has been expanded to include Feng Shui principles like location, colors, and numbers. This is because Feng Shui has gained popularity in architecture and interior design. Therefore, house numbers play an important role in the home buying decision for an increasing number of buyers.

I recently spent some time helping my clients find their “right” home. After examining neighborhoods, floor plans, school districts, and amenities, we settled on a few finalists. These houses were in the same neighborhood. All things being equal, it all came down to emotions and the “deal”. One house in particular seemed like a good deal. The design was nice, the color was to his liking, it had all the modern conveniences. I called my buyer to set up an appointment with his wife to take a look.

On the way to the house that was for sale, I explained to my clients that if they liked the house, we could probably negotiate 10% more off the already low sales price. They were excited at the prospect of finally reaching a closing decision, and a deal to begin with.

When we pulled into the driveway, everything was fine…or so I thought. I parked the car. I unbuckled my seat belt. My clients got out of the car while I collected my folder and phone. It didn’t take more than 5 seconds when I heard the back door of the car open again. My clients got back in the car and said, “Let’s go.”

I was shocked. “What’s happening?” I consulted. My client quickly responded that they could not and did not want to buy that house. I pressed for more information. He said, “look at the 4s”. I looked towards the house and searched for the house number. I found them and read, “444”.

“Why would I buy a house that screams ‘death, death, death?'”

The revelation came over me in an instant. My client was right. The number “4” is pronounced much like the word “death” in Chinese. So there was no arguing with that. What took me by surprise was that my client was not Chinese. So why was he so worried?

“I’ll have a very hard time selling that house when it’s time to move.”

Indeed, my client was right. Nine months later, that house is still on the market.

When it comes to Feng Shui numerology and house numbers, I’ve learned it’s best to play it safe. Look first for lucky house numbers, such as the number “9.” On the 8-sided Feng Shui compass, the most auspicious direction is “South”. It is at the top of the compass. Fame, fortune, party, red, fire, birds, summer, and the number “9” is associated with the South. A house number like “999” would be very lucky and desirable.

Here’s something else you may not have realized about “9”. It’s the only number where if you multiply it by another single-digit number, then add the sum of the two digits in the answer, the equation equals “9.” For example, 9 times 8 equals 72. Add 7 to 2 and you get 9. Can you see the appeal of this number?

The second lucky number is “8”. This number sounds similar to the word “prosperity” in Chinese. Combining 8 with other numbers like 2 also sounds similar to “easy prosperity” in Chinese. Therefore, 28 is also good for a house number.