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cash buyers
November 25, 2022
Sell Your Washington DC House for Cash in 4 Easy Steps!
Are you interested in selling your Washington DC house? If so, you have a number of different options to get your property sold. You can list your house for sale with a realtor, sell it on your own or work with a cash home buying company like 4 Brothers Buy Houses. While there are benefits to each method, more people are choosing to sell their houses for cash.
With a cash sale, you can sell your house quickly and move out in just weeks! It’s also a ‘clean’ sale, meaning that the transaction is between you and the buyers. There are no middlemen, like banks, lenders, appraisers or inspectors, which means you can negotiate directly with the buyer.
We’ll show you how easy it is to sell your Washington DC house for cash! Follow these steps and you can be walking away with money in your pocket in just a few short weeks!
Step 1: Get in Contact with Cash Home Buyers
The first step is to get in contact with a home buying company. We recommend choosing a local company that is familiar with your market. They’ll be able to schedule a time to come out, look at your house and make a fair offer. In the meantime, you can tell them some information about your property, such as its condition, location and your reason for selling.
Step 2: Schedule a Walkthrough
4 Brothers Buy Houses does a quick 5-minute walkthrough. This is not a showing, so you don’t have to worry about straightening up or cleaning. We just want to see what we’ll be buying, the type of work that needs to be done and the unique advantages of your property. This is how you also get the most money for your house, as pictures typically don’t do homes justice.
Step 3: Receive Your No-Obligation Cash Offer
Once the cash buyers have a chance to look at your property, they can make you a firm offer. Some companies will give you a preliminary offer and then make it firm once they see the property. Others do everything at once. When you receive the offer, you’ll have time to make a decision. We always tell sellers to weigh all the costs of selling their home the traditional way and compare this to the cash offer. In many cases, the cash offer is better!
Step 4: Schedule Closing
Another benefit in choosing a local home buying company is that you get to close at a local title company. Nowadays, many people are able to close at home by signing documents online. But it’s nice to know that the closing will take place in about two weeks or so at a local title company – and you can attend if you would like.
If you’re ready to sell your Washington DC house for cash, the first step is to contact 4 Brothers Buy Houses. Our experienced cash buyers will offer top dollar for your property, and we’ll make the process seamless and stress free. Get your free, no obligation cash offer today and see what we’ll pay for your house!
March 27, 2022
5 Ways to Sell Your Washington DC House Without Equity
Selling a Washington DC house can be a complicated process with a series of ups and downs. It’s exciting to accept an offer on your property, but it’s not so fun to be hit with a list of problems from the inspection. However, the process becomes even more complex when you owe more on your property than what it’s currently valued at.
Equity in a home is one of the biggest advantages a property owner has. It refers to the difference between what you owe on your mortgage and what your home is worth. If you come up short, it’s going to make the selling process a bit more difficult, unless you plan on coming up with the difference.
Fortunately, you do have options. Here are five ways to sell your home when you don’t have equity.
1. Realtor
A realtor can assist you in the home selling process and get top dollar for your property, so that hopefully, you can close the gap between what you owe on the home and what you get for it. The problem with a realtor is that they charge around 6 percent in commissions, which eats into your profits. We only recommend this option if you can afford to pay the realtor and pay off your mortgage.
2. For Sale By Owner
Another option is to sell the house yourself, a process called For Sale By Owner or FSBO. In this case, you do not have to pay a realtor because YOU are essentially the realtor. But, there are downfalls to this method. Primarily, you are responsible for everything – the listing, the showings, the paperwork, etc. You might also take a smaller offer since you don’t have a realtor handling the marketing.
3. Short Sale
A more reasonable option for selling a home without equity is a short sale. It’s also the most commonly used method. In a short sale, the lender must agree to accept a loss on the sale. You’ll still list the home and sell it to a buyer, typically in as-is condition, but you won’t make any profits. And, because you are unable to pay back the loan in full, you’ll get a ding on your credit report.
4. Real Estate Investor
If you want to get rid of your Washington DC property quickly, preserve your credit and avoid realtor fees, another option is to sell the house to a real estate investor. Investors or investment groups have no problem purchasing properties with limited or no equity. They will even take houses in rundown condition. You will still be responsible for paying off the loan, but you’ll have cash from the investor to help you with this.
5. 4 Brothers Buy Houses
At 4 Brothers Buy Houses, we purchase properties in Washington DC using our own cash. Due to this, we can skip over some of the bank-related formalities such as inspections and appraisals. We also pick up most closing costs and take houses in as-is condition. If you are currently in a position where you want to sell your home but you don’t have equity, we can help. Contact us today for your free cash offer.
March 17, 2022
Do Power Lines Really Lower Property Values in Virginia?
When you go to sell your house in Franconia VA, you’ll receive a lot of objective feedback you may not have been prepared for. This is the house you’ve lived in for years, maybe decades, and you’ve come to love most things about it. But now you have realtors and/or prospective buyers pointing out things like old tile, a worn roof and those unsightly power lines.
The difference between power lines and an old roof or flooring is that you can’t remove them. Aesthetics aren’t the only problem with power lines, however. They can also lower your property value by 10 to 40 percent.
Why Do Power Lines Lower Property Values?
The main reason why homes near power lines sell for less is because these structures are not aesthetically pleasing. People don’t like to look out the windows and see power lines, plus they can block views. Some people also report hearing a low humming noise when trying to relax in their backyard.
There is also some concern over how safe it is to live near power lines. While research has not proven any definite links between the proximity of power lines and medical issues, researchers continue to look for possible health risks. Understandably, some home buyers in Franconia will not feel comfortable buying a home near power lines.
How Much Do Power Lines Lower Property Values in Franconia VA?
How much power lines reduce property values in Franconia depends on many factors, including how close the lines are to your home, whether they hang over the backyard and whether they obstruct your views. On average, proximity to power lines can lower your property’s value by 10 to 40 percent.
If you plan on selling your house in Franconia, you might assume it will be a hard sell. And while it may be more difficult in some cases, keep in mind that homes near power lines are often more affordable and have less competition. For someone looking for a reasonably priced home that won’t end up in a bidding war, your Franconia house might be the one!
4 Brothers Buy Houses Purchases Properties in Franconia – and Power Lines Won’t Bother Us!
4 Brothers Buy Houses purchase homes all over Virginia. We don’t have any problems buying properties that are located near power lines. We take houses in any condition as well, so you don’t have to worry about paying for repairs or house staging. Contact our cash house buyers today to get your free cash offer.
October 18, 2021
Should I Rent or Sell My Home in Fairfax County VA?
Whether it’s a new job or the opportunity to live somewhere else, deciding what to do with your home in Fairfax County VA can be a difficult decision. On one hand, you can sell your home and move on with your next venture. But selling too quickly can cause you to forfeit some of your equity, especially if your home needs TLC.
On the other hand, you could keep your property and rent it out, but you may get stuck with a property that’s too hard to manage. So what should you do – sell your home in Fairfax County VA or rent it out? While only you can make the final decision, here is some information that can help.
Signs You Should Rent Your Home in Fairfax County
The housing market has remained strong throughout COVID, and that includes rentals. Here are some signs that your home might make a good rental property:
- High demand. The average rent for an apartment in Fairfax County is $2,054, a 13% increase compared to the previous year. Houses rent for even more. As long as rentals are in demand in your area, you shouldn’t have trouble finding a renter.
- Landlord material. Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a landlord. Renting out your home is a good start, and if it works out, you can build a nice nest egg for retirement.
- Personal attachment. Maybe you’re not ready to sell your home. Renting it out gives you the option to keep your home and possibly move back one day in the future.
- Profit. If you’re confident that you can make a profit by renting out your home, it’s worth considering. Some people are able to generate passive income with their rentals.
Signs You Should Sell Your Home in Fairfax County
While there are advantages to renting out your home, everyone knows that this comes with a lot of challenges. It might make financial and logistical sense to sell your home and free up your liquid assets. Below are some signs that selling your Fairfax County home is probably the best move.
- Seller’s market. Virginia is a seller’s market right now, with low inventory and high demand. As long as you price your home competitively, you should have no problem selling it fast.
- Liquidate cash. Perhaps you could use some cash for your new venture. If this is the case, selling your Fairfax County home is a great move.
- Not landlord material. Being a landlord comes at a price. The money you get out of rent payments must be worth the effort.
- Bad rental. Not all homes make good rental properties. The best rentals have low operating costs with no major issues.
Thinking about Selling Your Fairfax County Home? Get Your Free Cash Offer Today.
4 Brothers Buy Houses will buy your home in any condition. We can close in one week, which means you can liquidate your assets and have cash for your next venture. If this sounds like the best option for you, contact us today for your free cash offer.
September 15, 2021
Top 5 Things That Turn Off Potential Home Buyers
Selling a home in Alexandria VA? As the seller, your goal is to sell your home quickly while also taking home the most money. There are many things that need to happen to make this a reality, which may be in the cards for you. However, depending on the condition of your home, you may be looking at a long and tiresome road.
Even though most areas in Virginia are seller’s markets, this doesn’t mean people are buying just anything. Buyers prefer move-in ready homes in good condition. If your home doesn’t fit the bill, buyers will likely wait for something better to come along or ask you to lower the price.
To ensure you have realistic expectations, here are the top five things that turn away potential buyers – even in a competitive market.
Bad Odors
Yes, there is such a thing as “occupant odor.” These odors are specific to each household and are a mix of detergents, food, cleaning supplies and air fresheners. What you want to avoid is strong smells like cigarette smoke, pet urine, litter boxes and hamster cages. These odors can be confused for mold, mildew or just plain dirtiness, so avoid them at all costs.
Poor Curb Appeal
If your home has an overgrown yard, missing shutters or a cracked driveway, you’re basically telling potential buyers that your home isn’t well taken care of. Keep in mind that many people will drive past a house or look at it online before scheduling a showing. To avoid chasing away potential buyers, take some time to improve your home’s curb appeal.
Clutter Everywhere
When selling a home in Alexandria VA, all clutter needs to be removed. Your countertops should be practically bare with the exception of fresh flowers or a small plant. Cabinets, drawers and closets should be well organized and all clutter – laundry, toys, papers, dishes – should be put away in storage bins.
Dings, Cracks, Rips, Tears, Etc.
Don’t leave these types of jobs to the buyer. They’re usually easy and inexpensive to fix, unless they are the result of a bigger problem. Here are some things to be aware of, as they can be easy to miss since you’re used to living with them:
- Broken door hinges
- Ripped carpets
- Torn upholstery
- Broken or bent blinds
- Loose doorknobs
- Old or outdated light fixtures
- Dirty windows
Crazy Color Schemes
It’s best to give your walls a fresh coat of paint before putting your Alexandria home up for sale. Choose neutral colors like grey or off white. This is especially important if your walls are painted in bold hues like fuschia or lime green.
We also recommend giving your floors a once-over. Wall-to-wall carpeting can be a turnoff for buyers, especially if it’s worn and faded. You can swap out carpeting for stylish laminate or vinyl or offer a credit to your buyers instead.
Get a Free Cash Offer and Sell Your Alexandria VA Home Today!
What happens if you don’t have the time, money or desire to correct all these issues? Sell your home in Alexandria VA for cash! 4 Brothers Buy Houses purchases homes in all types of conditions – we don’t care about wall-to-wall carpet, old appliances, poor curb appeal or broken blinds. We’ll make you a fair cash offer and take your home as-is – not questions asked!
To get your free, no obligation cash offer, contact our cash real estate investors in Virginia today!
September 13, 2021
Pros and Cons of Hosting Open Houses in Woodbridge VA
Open houses are a debatable subject for both real estate agents and sellers. Some believe that open houses sell homes, while others feel that they are unnecessary, especially now during a pandemic. If you plan on selling your home in Woodbridge VA, you’re probably asking yourself this very question: Do I need to schedule an open house to sell my home?
There is no right answer for every situation. In some cases, open houses are valuable tools that can speed up the selling process. In other cases, they aren’t really necessary. Let’s cover the pros and cons to hosting an open house and what to do if you want to sell your home fast in Woodbridge while minimizing showings.
Advantages of Open Houses in Real Estate
Open houses may be a nuisance, but they can help speed up a home sale and even bring in multiple offers. And hopefully, you only have to schedule them once. Here are some of the benefits to look forward to:
- Attract buyers that wouldn’t have scheduled a personal tour
- Create a low-pressure environment where people feel comfortable
- Increase awareness that your home is for sale
- Receive feedback on your home (learn what people like and don’t like)
Disadvantages of Open Houses in Real Estate
As beneficial as open houses can be, they are still a headache. You must get your home in the best condition and leave for several hours. The realtor will stay at the home during this time to answer questions and watch over things. Below are some of the negative aspects of hosting an open house:
- Lots of unqualified buyers (or those who are just curious)
- Security issues since many people will be in the home with little supervision
- Less one-on-one time with buyers
- Often more work than it’s worth
What if You Don’t Want to Host an Open House? Is This a Necessary Part of Selling a Home in Woodbridge VA?
You do not have to host an open house if you don’t want to. However, your real estate agent may strongly encourage it, especially if your home is unique and located in a busy location. And, if your home isn’t selling, you may have no choice but to host an open house for added exposure.
If you’re not a fan of having an open house because of security issues, possible theft, unqualified buyers and “lookie-loos” (nosy neighbors), you do have another option: sell your home for cash in Woodbridge VA. When you sell your home fast for cash, you can eliminate showings and open houses!
4 Brothers Buy Houses pays cash for homes in as-is condition. We respect our clients’ privacy and never request showings or open houses. And, we can close within 7-10 days. Contact us today to get your free cash offer.
July 29, 2021
How to Stop Foreclosure at the Last Minute in Springfield VA
If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage payments and are now in foreclosure, you might feel like you’re in a hole. It’s hard to climb out when you owe thousands of dollars in late payments and fees, especially when you’re already having a hard time with your finances. Believe it or not, there are ways to turn your situation around. Foreclosure does not have to be the end.
Here are some of the most effective ways that you can stop foreclosure in Springfield VA at the last minute. To speak with 4 Brothers Buy Houses, contact us today. We help people solve their financial challenges.
File for Bankruptcy
If you want to keep your home, you can file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy where you pay down outstanding debts through a structured repayment plan. Chapter 7 is another option for bankruptcy, though we recommend it for those who don’t want to keep their home. Thankfully, you can stay in your home while you go through the bankruptcy process.
Modify Your Loan
This solution won’t work for everyone, as it depends on your lender and the type of loan you have. But it is an option worth considering, especially when you want to keep your home. With a loan modification, you’ll have a new payment that’s more affordable. This way, you can remain in your home and keep paying down your balance while staying within budget.
Get a Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure
A deed in lieu of foreclosure will hurt your credit, just as bankruptcy will. But it can be a last-minute option if you’ve tried other things and want to stop the foreclosure process. In this process, the document transfers the home’s title to the bank that owns the mortgage. This prevents a long and time consuming foreclosure process.
Sell Your Home Fast in Springfield VA
Ultimately, your lender wants their money back. If you can’t afford your home and want to start fresh somewhere else, you don’t have to sit and wait for your home to be sold at auction. This can be stressful – the phone calls, letters, etc. Instead, you can sell your home quickly for cash.
At 4 Brothers Buy Houses, we purchase Virginia properties for cash. We don’t need mortgage financing, which allows us to move through the process very quickly. And because we buy homes as-is, you don’t need to pay for repairs on the home or work with a real estate agent. You can close on your home in as little as seven days and start your next chapter.
To discuss your options for selling your home fast for cash in Springfield VA, contact 4 Brothers Buy Houses today.
June 11, 2021
How Quickly Can a Cash Buyer Close on a Home in Washington DC?
One of the biggest perks to selling a home for cash is that you can close very quickly. Typically, you can expect closing to take 30-45 days in a traditional sale. But in a cash sale, closing usually happens within a week. Why is there such a big difference, and can you expect the same hassle-free process yourself?
Let us walk you through the steps it takes to close on a home when working with cash home buyers in Washington DC.
Closing on a Washington DC Home in a Cash Sale
When you sell your home to a cash buyer in the DC area, you are eliminating the entire lending process. There are no showings, appraisals, inspections or last-minute underwriting problems. The transaction is between you and the buyer.
Here is the timeline you can expect:
Consultation
The initial consultation can be done over the phone and involves gathering basic information about your property. At 4 Brothers Buy Houses, we like to know what situation you’re facing, your home’s condition and your closing expectations. It’s a quick call and there is absolutely no obligation to continue.
Evaluation
The only ‘showing’ you’ll have to do is a quick evaluation. Don’t worry about tidying things up – our investors are looking at the bigger picture. They’ll take a few measurements and look at the basement and attic. This information is used to get an accurate estimate on the work that needs to be done.
Offer
An offer is made soon after the evaluation. 4 Brothers Buy Houses always provides fair and honest offers. We usually pick up all closing costs as well. Once we agree on a price, we can get started with the closing paperwork, including a contract you can sign electronically.
Signing
When the contract is signed, you’ll get a copy of it. Another copy is sent out so a title search can be done and your closing can be scheduled. If there are issues with the title, it will take longer to close.
Closing
Now for the fun part – the actual closing! Usually this happens within a week and we take care of all the details. This is far less time than the 30-45 days it takes in a traditional closing. At this time, you’ll get a cashier’s check or have the funds transferred to you electronically.
As you can see, cash sales are simple and streamlined. If you can benefit from a fast sale on your Washington DC property, contact 4 Brothers Buy Houses today!
June 9, 2021
Do Cash Buyers Really Buy Homes As They Are?
If you think your home is too ugly or run down for anyone to pay for, think again. While the average buyer will likely steer clear of a home that needs a lot of work, cash investors are different. These buyers purchase homes in all conditions, sizes and locations. They can save you an incredible amount of time because you don’t have to prepare your home for the real estate market.
4 Brothers Buy Houses is a home buying company that buys homes in Maryland, Virginia and DC. No home is out of our reach. With our experience and professional network, we’re comfortable taking on the most distressed properties. If you have a home to sell in MD, VA or DC, give us a call today for a free, no obligation offer!
What Does ‘As-Is’ Mean in Real Estate?
In real estate, an as-is property is one that is listed for sale in its current state. If there are any issues or problems with the home, they will not be addressed by the seller like they would in a traditional sale. In exchange, the buyer is usually given some type of discount.
Some of the most common reasons why people sell their homes as-is are:
- Asbestos
- Faulty or leaky roof
- Mildew or mold problems
- Termite damage or infestation
- Structural issues
- Foundation problems
- Chinese drywall
Types of Houses that Cash Buyers Purchase
Wondering what types of properties cash buyers in MD, VA and DC are most interested in? Here are a few examples:
Houses that need major repairs
Believe it or not, cash investors are drawn to houses in bad shape. They’re going to renovate them anyway so it’s not a problem if things are outdated or in poor condition. And with their extensive network of professionals, cash home buyers aren’t afraid to take on homes that have more serious issues like uneven floors, bowed walls, fire damage or water damage.
Houses that need cosmetic work
Eyesores like peeling wallpaper, stained carpet and old cabinets can be overwhelming to one person. But house buying companies like 4 Brothers Buy Houses have a team of experts that will come in and tackle all of these issues. In fact, if you have an inherited home you’re trying to sell, you can leave the furniture and belongings to us!
Houses in undesirable neighborhoods
Some neighborhoods are not desirable to typical buyers. If your home is located in one, it could take a lot longer to sell. Aside from high crime rates, the average buyer also stays away from neighborhoods near airports, factories, train tracks, waste disposal areas and government housing.
Bottom line: Cash home buyers in MD, VA and DC truly buy homes as they are. They will take on everything from major repairs to moderate cosmetic work. To get a free cash offer from 4 Brothers Buy Houses, contact us today.
April 30, 2021
My Silver Spring Real Estate Listing Expired. What Can I Do?
Not all homes listed for sale in Silver Spring MD are sold. Perhaps your realtor wasn’t the right fit or maybe your home didn’t attract much interest. Whatever the case, now your real estate listing has expired and you’re back to square one.
At this time, you can continue working with your current realtor or hire a new one. However, keep in mind that switching realtors won’t necessarily produce a buyer. Ask your realtor why your house hasn’t sold. Was it priced too high? Do you need to bring in a stager to make your home more desirable?
If the realtor isn’t the problem and your home is, you’ll have to make some big decisions. Let’s discuss your options for selling a home in Silver Spring MD that no one wants. Unfortunately, some homes are unlovable and it could take months before you find a buyer.
Understand WHY Your House Isn’t Selling
If you’d prefer to sell your home through a realtor, you’ll need to find out why it’s not selling and then address the issues. Some of the most common reasons why houses don’t sell are:
High price. Even in a seller’s market, your home needs to be priced competitively. Homes are a big investment and buyers want to know they’re getting the best deal possible.
Poor condition. Buyers prefer move-in ready homes. Just because you’ve lived with old cabinets and stained carpet doesn’t mean someone else will. You can fix up the home yourself, offer a credit or lower your price.
Unprofessional listing. Your listing could be outdated, lacking information or lacking high quality photos. People rely on online listings so make sure yours represents your home in the best light possible.
Oddly unique. Some homes don’t fit the mold of what today’s buyers are looking for. Unique properties like very large homes, homes in unusual areas or homes with odd features tend to have a harder time selling.
Underlying problems. Perhaps your home has a few issues, and while you might not think they’re a big deal, your buyers will. Even homes with odd odors can drive people away.
Consider Selling Your Silver Spring Home to a Cash Buyer
When you identify why your home isn’t selling, you can determine the best fix. Some things are easy. You can hire a professional photographer, update your listing and stage your home. But you can’t move its location or change its layout. And depending on the problems your home has, you might not have the time or money to fix things up. Selling your Silver Spring MD home for cash may be the best option you have.
In this transaction, a cash buyer will make you an offer, and if you accept, the closing paperwork can start right away. Cash investors use their own money so there’s no need to wait on bank financing. They also buy homes as-is so any underlying issues likely won’t be a problem.
A few other benefits to selling your home to a cash buyer in Silver Spring MD are:
No inspections or appraisals
No realtor fees or commissions
No staging or showings
Closing costs are typically covered
Close in about one week
Work with a local title company
Getting a cash offer is fast and free! Contact 4 Brothers Buy Houses to see what we’re willing to buy your Silver Spring Maryland home for!
