When it comes to selling your home, there are several paths to choose from. Many homeowners debate between listing with a real estate agent or working directly with cash home buyers in Virginia Beach.
Both options can lead to a successful sale, but the process, timeline, and what you walk away with are not the same. Understanding these differences helps you choose the approach that aligns with your goals and situation.
How Selling with a Real Estate Agent Works
Hiring a real estate agent is the traditional way to sell a home. Your agent lists the property on the Multiple Listing Service, markets the home to potential buyers, coordinates showings, and negotiates offers. The goal is to create exposure and attract the highest possible price.
This route usually works best if your home is in good condition and you have time to wait. The open market tends to deliver higher sale prices, especially when buyers compete. Selling with an agent does require preparation. You may need to clean, declutter, stage, or make repairs so the home appeals to buyers. Once listed, you should expect showings, inspections, and possibly requests for repairs or credits before closing.
There are also selling costs that affect your net proceeds. Agent commissions are often five to six percent of the final sale price. Sellers also pay closing fees and may contribute toward buyer expenses depending on negotiations. For many homeowners, this process is worth it if they can wait for the best offer and the home is in good enough shape to compete.
How Selling to a Cash Home Buyer Works
Selling to a cash home buyer is very different. Instead of listing your home and hoping for the best offer, you work directly with a buyer who makes a cash purchase. Companies like 757 Property Solutions buy houses in Virginia Beach without the lengthy steps of a traditional sale. You meet with the buyer, they evaluate the property, and you receive a fair cash offer.
This option is most helpful when time matters or when the property needs work. Cash buyers purchase homes in any condition, so you do not have to repair, clean, or update the property. Once you accept the offer, closing can take place in a short period of time. You do not have to wait for mortgage approval, appraisals, or buyer financing.
There are no commissions to pay and closing fees are often covered. The final amount you agree to is typically what you receive. While the offer may be lower than a full retail market price, many sellers prefer the speed, certainty, and convenience.
The Key Differences Between the Two
Deciding between a real estate agent and a cash home buyer comes down to what matters most. Each option serves a different type of seller.
Speed:
Selling with an agent often takes 60 to 90 days or longer. Selling to a cash buyer can take one to three weeks.
Condition of the Home:
Agents focus on homes that appeal to traditional buyers. Cash buyers purchase homes in any condition.
Certainty of the Sale:
Traditional deals can fall apart due to inspections, appraisals, or buyer financing. Cash buyers close without these risks.
Costs and Net Proceeds:
Agent commissions and buyer concessions reduce what you walk away with. Selling to a cash buyer eliminates commissions and helps you avoid repair costs.
Seller Responsibilities:
With an agent, you participate in preparing the property, coordinating showings, and negotiating. With a cash buyer, the process is simpler and requires less involvement.
When Working with a Real Estate Agent Makes Sense
If your home is updated, well maintained, and in a desirable location, working with an agent can help you capture the highest market price. You benefit from full exposure on the MLS, professional marketing, open houses, and a larger pool of buyers.
This option also makes sense if you are not in a rush. Sellers who can wait for the right buyer often secure the best offer. If you have the time, patience, and ability to handle repairs or buyer requests, listing with an agent is a solid strategy.
When Selling to a Cash Home Buyer Is the Better Choice
Selling to a cash home buyer is the better option when speed and simplicity matter. If you are facing foreclosure, relocating for work, handling a rental property, or dealing with a home that needs repairs, a direct sale provides relief. You avoid inspections, banks, and months of uncertainty.
Cash buyers like 757 Property Solutions make straightforward offers and handle the details. You do not have to worry about commissions, closing costs, or cleaning the home for showings. For many sellers, the convenience outweighs the potential to earn a higher price through a traditional listing.
Choosing What Works Best for You
There is no single answer that fits everyone. Your decision depends on your timeline, the property’s condition, and your financial goals. If your home is market-ready, a real estate agent can help you aim for the highest price. If your priority is a fast, predictable sale without repairs or fees, working with Virginia Beach cash home buyers may be the right move.
At 757 Property Solutions, we buy houses in Virginia Beach directly from homeowners and provide flexible closing options. If you are deciding between listing or selling for cash, reach out to learn more about our process and see whether it aligns with your goals.
