Should you list with an agent or sell to a cash buyer? We compare the timeline, costs, and convenience of both options.
1. The Timeline
Real Estate Agent: 3-6 months. You have to prep the house, list it, host showings, wait for an offer, and then wait 30-45 days for the buyer's financing.
Cash Buyer: 7-14 days. Since we use our own cash, we skip the banks and inspections. We can close as soon as the title work is ready.
2. The Costs
Real Estate Agent: You pay 6% commission, 2-3% in closing costs, plus repairs and staging. On a $300k house, that is $18k-$25k right off the top.
Cash Buyer: Zero commissions. We usually cover all closing costs. The offer we make is the amount you see at closing.
3. The Condition of the Home
Real Estate Agent: Buyers expect 'move-in ready.' You will likely need to paint, fix roofs, and update kitchens to get a good offer.
Cash Buyer: We buy 'As-Is.' We don't care about the roof, the AC, or the clutter. We buy it exactly how it sits.
Privacy and Convenience
Listing on the MLS means strangers touring your house and public photos online. Selling to a cash buyer keeps your situation private—no yard signs, no nosy neighbors.
Why Sellers Choose Cash
Homeowners facing foreclosure, divorce, or inherited property often prioritize certainty and speed over squeezing out the last dollar. A transparent cash offer gives you control and allows you to move forward without the headaches of repairs and showings.