As the real estate market has continued to flag, a growing number of the faithful — and the desperate — have embraced the ritual of burying St. Joseph to clinch a quick sale.
Hardware stores, Catholic stores and other outlets have reported a surge in sales of the figurine of the saint believed by some to be the patron of home and employment. Real estate agents are snapping up “St. Joseph Home Selling Kits” for would-be clients — in both English and Spanish editions. Typically, the kits include a 3- to 8-inch figurine, a bag to bury it in, instructions and sample prayers.
Ronnie Wilson, an agent in Carlsbad, Calif., includes the figurine in her regular marketing kit, along with “for sale” signs and online ads. “I do carry a hoe around in my car, in case they want me to do it for them,” she said. “Every little bit helps.”
