What Are the Hidden Costs of Listing a Distressed Home With a Traditional Realtor vs. a Cash Buyer?
If you're thinking about selling a distressed house in South Atlanta, the first number you probably look at is the potential sale price.
That's understandable.
You might see similar homes selling for $300,000, $350,000, or even more and think:
"If I can just get that price, I'll be fine."
Hidden Costs of Traditional MLS Listings: Why South Atlanta Fixer-Uppers Often Net More With a Cash Offer
If you own a fixer-upper in South Atlanta, you may assume the smartest move is obvious:
Put it on the MLS, get as much exposure as possible, and take the highest offer.
It sounds logical.
But there is a problem.
The highest offer isn't necessarily the highest amount you keep.
A traditional listing can involve repairs, cleaning, landscaping, staging, inspections, buyer concessions, financing delays, carrying costs, and other expenses.
Selling to a Local Cash Buyer vs. Listing With an Agent in South Metro Atlanta: Net Proceeds Breakdown
The best way to compare a local cash buyer with a traditional real estate listing is not the offer price. It's the amount of money you actually keep after repairs, commissions, closing costs, holding costs, and other selling expenses.
A $350,000 listing price can look better than a $300,000 cash offer.
But what if the $350,000 house needs $30,000 in repairs, $10,000 in preparation, months of mortgage payments, and negotiated buyer concessions?
Suddenly, the difference isn't nearly as large.