You’ve seen the signs and ads: “We buy houses, any condition, cash.” These companies are real estate investors who buy houses directly from owners, usually without an agent, a mortgage or repairs. Here’s how the process works, how they make money, and how to tell a good one from a bad one.
How the Process Works
- You contact the company by phone or through a form and share basic details about the house.
- They look at the house, either in person or using photos, to estimate its value and the repairs it needs.
- They make a cash offer, often within 24 to 48 hours.
- You accept or decline. There should be no cost or obligation to get an offer.
- A title company or attorney handles closing. They check the title, pay off your mortgage and any liens, and send you the rest.
- You get paid at closing, often within one to three weeks of accepting.
How “We Buy Houses” Companies Make Money
Most make money in one of three ways:
- Fix and flip. They renovate the house and sell it on the open market.
- Rent it out. They repair it and keep it as a rental.
- Wholesale. They sign a contract with you, then assign it to another investor for a fee. This is legal in most states when done properly, but you should know if it’s the plan.
To leave room for profit, their offer is usually based on a formula: the house’s value after repairs, minus repair costs, minus their buying, holding and selling costs, minus a margin. That’s why their offers are lower than a fully renovated house would sell for.
Are “We Buy Houses” Companies Legitimate?
Most are legitimate businesses, but the quality varies a lot. Good companies explain their numbers, put everything in writing, close through a title company and don’t pressure you. Watch out for:
- Big price drops right before closing
- Upfront fees of any kind
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Contracts with long inspection periods that tie up your house
- Any request to sign over your deed outside a formal closing
Our guide to companies that buy houses for cash includes a checklist for vetting a buyer.
When Selling to One Makes Sense
| Situation | Why a cash buyer helps |
|---|---|
| The house needs major repairs | No need to fix anything |
| You’re facing foreclosure | Fast closing can beat the sale date |
| You inherited a house | No cleanout, simple split between heirs |
| You’re going through a divorce | One clear number and a fixed closing date |
| You have tenants in place | No need to wait for the lease to end |
If your house is in good condition and you have time, listing with an agent will often get you more money. If speed, certainty and convenience matter more, a cash sale can be worth the trade-off.
How 75 Fast Offer Works
We’re a cash home buyer based in Altamonte Springs, Florida, buying in 12 states. We make a fair cash offer, usually within 24 hours, explain how we got there, charge no fees or commissions, pay the closing costs, and let you choose a closing date as soon as 10 days. Read the details on our sell page or our FAQs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we buy houses companies make money?
They buy below retail value, then renovate and resell, keep the house as a rental, or assign the contract to another investor.
Is it a good idea to sell to a we buy houses company?
It can be if your house needs repairs, you need to sell fast, or you’re in a difficult situation. If your house is move-in ready and you have time, a listing may get you more.
Do we buy houses companies charge fees?
Reputable ones don’t charge upfront fees. 75 Fast Offer charges no fees or commissions and pays the closing costs.
Ready for a Cash Offer?
Tell us about your house and we’ll send a fair cash offer, usually within 24 hours. No repairs, fees or commissions, and you choose the closing date. Get your cash offer or call (321) 895-9394.