When it's time to sell your Austin home, you have two primary paths: sell to a cash home buyer or list with a real estate agent. Both have their place, and the right choice depends on your specific situation, timeline, and priorities.
Understanding Cash Home Buyers
Cash home buyers like House Buyers in Austin are real estate investors who purchase properties directly from homeowners using their own funds. There's no bank financing involved, which eliminates many of the delays and uncertainties of traditional sales.
How it works:
Understanding Real Estate Agents
Real estate agents list your property on the MLS and market it to potential buyers. They handle showings, negotiations, and paperwork in exchange for a commission.
How it works:
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Cash Buyer | Real Estate Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | 7-14 days | 90-120 days total |
| Repairs needed | None | Usually $5,000-$30,000+ |
| Commission | None | 5-6% of sale price |
| Closing costs | Buyer pays | Seller pays 2-3% |
| Showings | None | Multiple over weeks/months |
| Certainty | Very high | Medium (deals fall through) |
| Sale price | Below market | At or near market |
| Net proceeds | Often comparable | Higher gross, lower net |
The Net Proceeds Reality
Many sellers focus on the sale price without considering total costs. Let's compare a $350,000 Austin home:
Selling with an Agent:
- •Sale price: $350,000
- •Agent commission (6%): -$21,000
- •Closing costs (3%): -$10,500
- •Repairs and staging: -$15,000
- •Carrying costs (3 months): -$6,000
- •Net proceeds: $297,500
Selling to a Cash Buyer:
- •Cash offer: $300,000
- •Agent commission: $0
- •Closing costs: $0
- •Repairs: $0
- •Carrying costs: $0
- •Net proceeds: $300,000
In this example, the cash offer actually nets the seller $2,500 more — and saves 3 months of time and stress.
When to Choose a Cash Buyer
A cash buyer is typically the better choice when:
- •You need to sell within 30 days
- •Your home needs significant repairs
- •You want certainty and simplicity
- •You're dealing with a difficult situation (foreclosure, divorce, inheritance)
- •You want to avoid showings and strangers in your home
- •You value your time and peace of mind
When to Choose an Agent
An agent listing may be better when:
- •Your home is in excellent, move-in ready condition
- •You have 3-6 months to sell
- •You're in a hot seller's market with low inventory
- •You enjoy the process and can handle showings
- •Maximizing the gross sale price is your top priority
Get Both Options — For Free
Not sure which path is right for you? Contact House Buyers in Austin at (512) 675-3722 for a free, no-obligation cash offer. Compare it with agent estimates and choose what's best for your situation. There's absolutely no pressure — we want you to make the right decision for your family.