We’ve seen it everywhere. At a street light, on telephone poles, even on neighbors lawns. “We buy houses” or “We are cash buyers”. It’s odd to think that someone that writes on a sign with a marker and puts it on the side of the road actually could buy your house or has the actual cash to buy it. Unfortunately, most don’t have the money or are a scam but some are actually legitimate companies that can buy your house simply and stress free. Here are some tips on what to look for before you make a call or sign anything.
Make Sure They Are Legitimate
There are so many companies or people out there that are not real or fly by the night. Before you make a call do these things first:
1. Check to see if they are registered with the Better Business Bureau or if they have any complaints.
2. Google the company or phone number. In this day and age everyone should have a website of some sort. If they don’t then they’re probably not legit.
3. Check out their website. Do they have there name and picture on it? If they don’t then beware. Most people would prefer to have a site with someone they can see, relate to, and know about.
If these all check out, this is what to ask once you make the call or fill out your information.
1. Ask any question you have.
2. Ask if they are the decision maker. Are they making the offer?
3. How long they’ve been buying houses? What escrow company they use? Phone number? Make sure they are professionals and have closed many transactions. Real professionals care about there reputation and future business. Not the quick buck.
4. Trust your gut! If you don’t fee comfortable or get a weird feeling when talking to someone on the phone then don’t do anything with that person. There is plenty of other cash buyers in the sea.
Moving Forward
If after all your questions and research and they’ve given you a win-win offer you decide to move forward with the transaction. Here are some things to look for.
1. Always understand what you’re signing. Ask questions and if you need a lawyer or family member to read it. Do so.
2. Get everything in writing. Verbal or handshake agreements are great but they won’t hold up in a court of law.
3. If something doesn’t feel right, again…walk away.
If you’re looking to sell your house fast and simply. Using a cash buyer can be a great asset as long as you are careful and do your due diligence. As with anything there are some bad people out there but if you follow these tips you should be able to avoid them.