Cash Buyers vs. Realtors: Which Is Right for You?
Sacramento homeowners have two main options when selling: list with a realtor for potentially higher price, or sell to a cash buyer for speed, certainty, and simplicity. The right choice depends on your situation, timeline, and property condition.
Key Takeaway
Side-by-Side Comparison
When Cash Buyers Make Sense
Speed Matters: Close in Days, Not Months
Cash Sale vs. Traditional Sale Timeline
Day 1: Contact & Offer
Cash buyer: Receive offer within 24 hours. Realtor: Sign listing agreement, prep home.
Week 1: Under Contract
Cash buyer: Sign contract, open escrow. Realtor: Photos, staging, list on MLS.
Week 2: Close
Cash buyer: Close and get paid. Realtor: First showings begin.
Weeks 3-8: Negotiations
Cash buyer: Already moved on. Realtor: Receive offers, negotiate, inspections.
Weeks 9-12: Closing
Cash buyer: N/A. Realtor: Buyer financing, appraisal, final walkthrough, close.
Pro Tip
Get a cash offer first—even if you're leaning toward listing. Knowing your guaranteed floor price helps you make better decisions and gives you leverage in negotiations.
The Real Cost of Selling with a Realtor
Deal Fall-Through Risk
About 20% of traditional sales fall through due to financing issues, low appraisals, or inspection problems. When a deal dies after 30-60 days, you start over—adding months to your timeline and ongoing mortgage payments.
Privacy and Simplicity
Selling due to divorce, death, or financial difficulty? Cash buyers offer complete discretion. No yard signs, no open houses, no nosy neighbors, no public listing. Just a private transaction between you and the buyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cash buyers pay less than market value?
Cash offers are typically 70-85% of market value, but when you subtract commissions, repairs, carrying costs, and closing fees from a traditional sale, the net proceeds are often similar—and you get them months faster.
Can I negotiate with cash buyers?
Yes. Reputable cash buyers provide transparent offers based on property condition and market value. You can discuss the offer, ask questions, and negotiate if you have competing offers.
What if my home is in good condition?
Move-in ready homes may net more through traditional sale—but you'll still pay 8-10% in costs and wait 60-90+ days. Many sellers prefer certainty and speed even with nice homes.
Are cash buyers legitimate?
Reputable cash buyers like Fast Home Buyer California are licensed, insured, and have verifiable track records. Ask for references, check reviews, and verify they use legitimate title companies.
Ready to Compare Your Options?
Get a no-obligation cash offer to see exactly what you'd net compared to listing. Many Sacramento homeowners are surprised at how competitive cash offers are once they factor in all the costs and time of traditional sales.
Get Your Free Cash Offer
Call (916) 507-2502 or fill out our form for a cash offer within 24 hours. No repairs, no commissions, no obligation—just honest numbers so you can make the best decision.
Part of Our Complete Guide
Cash Home Buyers vs Traditional Real Estate: The Complete Comparison GuideRead the full guide for more in-depth information on this topic.
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