5 Top We Buy Houses for Cash Companies in DC
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Richard Haddad Managing EditorClose
Richard Haddad Managing EditorRichard Haddad is the managing editor of HomeLight.com. He works with an experienced content team that oversees the company’s blog featuring in-depth articles about the home buying and selling process, homeownership news, home care and design tips, and related real estate trends. Previously, he served as an editor and content producer for World Company, Gannett, and Western News & Info, where he also served as news director and director of internet operations.
At HomeLight, our vision is a world where every real estate transaction is simple, certain, and satisfying. Therefore, we promote strict editorial integrity in each of our posts.
In Washington, D.C., homeowners facing an unexpected or urgent situation often turn to “We Buy Houses” companies for a fast home sale. These companies are known for making all-cash offers for homes that might need some work, offering a quick solution for sellers who lack the time, expertise, or money for repairs.
A cash sale enables you to receive the proceeds swiftly and move forward with your life plans, even if your house isn’t in perfect condition. However, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.
In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of working with house-buying companies in Washington, D.C. We’ll also discuss popular We Buy Houses for Cash companies in the city and compare alternatives to help you make an informed decision for your unique situation.
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Disclaimer: This post is meant to be used for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Links and mentions of Washington, D.C., area “we buy houses” companies should not be considered an endorsement.
Working with house-buying companies in DC
Below are the basic steps you’d typically follow when selling your house to a Washington, D.C., house-buying company.
- Contact the company: Reach out to a house-buying company, either by phone or through their website. Provide your property address, contact information, and any details about your home that might be relevant.
- Schedule a walkthrough: Once the company reviews your initial information, they’ll schedule a time to visit your property for a quick walkthrough. This helps them evaluate the condition of your home and its potential value.
- Receive an offer: After the walkthrough, the company will provide you with an all-cash offer, usually within 24-48 hours. This offer will take into account factors like your home’s condition, location, and current market conditions.
- Review the offer: Take your time to review the offer and, if necessary, consult with a trusted advisor or real estate professional to ensure it’s a good deal for your situation.
- Sign the agreement: If you decide to accept the offer, you’ll sign an agreement outlining the terms of the sale. Make sure to read it thoroughly and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Choose a closing date: You can typically choose a closing date that fits your schedule, often within a week or two of accepting the offer.
- Close the deal: On the agreed-upon closing date, you’ll sign the necessary paperwork and receive your cash payment, usually in the form of a cashier’s check or wire transfer.
Popular We Buy Houses for Cash companies in DC
If the process of selling to a house-buying company in Washington, D.C., sounds good to you, it’s time to find a legitimate operation you can trust.
We’ve compiled some of the top companies that will pay cash for your Federal-style house or your parents’ Colonial-style home. By selling to one of these companies, you should be able to sell your Washington, D.C., home in as little as a week or two.
4 Brothers Buy Houses
Established in 2009, 4 Brothers Buy Houses has since carved out a significant niche in the Washington, D.C. area real estate market. With a track record of over 130 property transactions since 2010 and extensive knowledge from continuous learning and partnerships, this enterprise presents itself as a credible alternative to the conventional real estate market. On their website, the four brothers express: “We love the business of real estate and the opportunity to help sellers who sometimes are in difficult situations sell their properties quickly and easily.” The brothers offer homeowners a hassle-free and prompt selling experience, bypassing the traditional Realtor-driven processes.
Locations: Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas
Closing costs: 4 Brothers Buy Houses often pay for closing costs.
4 Brothers Buy Houses has been BBB accredited since 2016 and holds an A+ rating. The company consistently receives high praise from clients for their swift and smooth home-buying process. Customers commend the company’s ability to offer all-cash deals without unnecessary complications. Many highlight the staff’s efficient handling of legal paperwork, ensuring secure and prompt transactions, sometimes in just a matter of hours. The team is also appreciated for their patience, professionalism, and flexibility, especially with properties that require renovations. Google rating is 4.8.
Website: 4brothersbuyhouses.com
Phone number: 571-601-3887
Simple Sale (a HomeLight platform)
Simple Sale, a solution from HomeLight, is an online platform where sellers in Washington, D.C. (and across the country) can request a cash offer for their home. Simple Sale connects you to the largest network of cash buyers in the U.S. Partner investors have a wide range of investment strategies, including fix-and-flip and buy-and-hold. This enables Simple Sale to provide cash offers for a wide array of properties, even those that need some or a lot of work, in different locations throughout Washington, D.C.
With Simple Sale, you can get a no-obligation, all-cash offer in 24 hours, and sell your home in as few as 10 days, skipping the months it can take to sell the traditional way.
Locations: Nationwide, including Washington, D.C.
Closing costs: No prep costs, no agent commissions, and no fees charged by HomeLight. Individual investor fees may vary.
Simple Sale is a HomeLight platform. HomeLight was founded in 2012 and is BBB accredited with an A+ rating. The company has 4.6 stars on Google based on more than 500 user reviews. Below you can hear about how Baohan Wu, a seller who used Simple Sale to sell his high-rise apartment, closed within three and a half weeks and what he thought of the process overall.
Learn more: homelight.com/simple
Phone: 844-488-8455
Metro Cash Buyers
Metro Cash Buyers offers homeowners a transparent and straightforward process to sell their D.C. area homes. On their website, they express their commitment to helping sellers “from start to finish, and do not assign your house to outside buyers or wholesalers ensuring a timely transaction.” That timeliness includes providing a cash offer in under 24 hours, in most cases. By handling all transactions in-house without relying on external intermediaries such as banks or inspectors, Metro Cash Buyers aims for a prompt and seamless experience for all sellers. Their 100% transparency mantra, coupled with no hidden costs, makes them a trusted choice in the industry.
Locations: Washington, D.C., Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Closing costs: Seller pays no closing costs; Metro Cash Buyers covers them.
Metro Cash Buyers consistently receives positive reviews from satisfied customers. Clients frequently highlight the company’s honest and transparent approach throughout the selling process. Zac, a team member, is particularly noted for his extensive knowledge and upfront communication, making sellers feel comfortable and informed. Many appreciate the fair offers they receive, even for properties requiring renovations. Overall, Metro Cash Buyers is commended for its genuine, expert team and hassle-free service, making them a popular choice for those wanting to sell their homes promptly and effortlessly. Google rating is 5.0.
Website: metrocashbuyersllc.com
Phone number: 202-968-7150
Capitol Cash Offer
Capitol Cash Offer has been serving the D.C. area for over a decade, buying homes and aiding homeowners in various circumstances. Renowned for its quick and efficient service, the company can make same-day offers, even virtually, ensuring a discreet and hassle-free process. Whether a homeowner is relocating, dealing with an inheritance, facing foreclosure, or just looking to sell an unwanted property, Capitol Cash Offer stands out as a trusted solution. They guarantee all written offers, can close deals within 7-14 days, and even cover moving costs. Their extensive experience includes purchasing properties in any condition, from neglected homes to tenant-occupied spaces.
Locations: Washington, D.C., and some areas in Maryland and Virginia
Closing costs: Capitol Cash Offer will often pay for closing costs
Capitol Cash Offer has been BBB accredited since 2021 and holds an A+ rating. Customers consistently laud Capitol Cash Offer for its professionalism, understanding, and high-quality service. Clients appreciate the team’s dedication to addressing individual needs and circumstances, particularly when dealing with difficult properties or personal attachments to homes. Several reviews highlight the staff’s patient and non-pressuring approach, helping homeowners make informed decisions. The combination of market knowledge and readiness to assist, even in complicated situations like properties with squatters, sets Capitol Cash Offer apart. Google rating is 5.0.
Capitol Cash Offer has been BBB accredited since 2021 and holds an A+ rating. Customers consistently laud Capitol Cash Offer for its professionalism, understanding, and high-quality service. Clients appreciate the team’s dedication to addressing individual needs and circumstances, particularly when dealing with difficult properties or personal attachments to homes. Several reviews highlight the staff’s patient and non-pressuring approach, helping homeowners make informed decisions. The combination of market knowledge and readiness to assist, even in complicated situations like properties with squatters, sets Capitol Cash Offer apart. Google rating is 5.0.
Website: capitolcashoffer.com
Phone number: 202-235-2323
Dependable Homebuyers
Dependable Homebuyers is a real estate solutions company that buys homes in Washington D.C., offering sellers cash in as little as seven days. Founded to assist homeowners in various situations, from foreclosure to divorce or inheriting unwanted properties, the company stands out for its swift response times. Within 24 hours of being contacted, they provide comprehensive research on the property and present a free, no-obligation offer. Their unique selling proposition is their flexibility, catering to houses in any condition, even those needing extensive repairs or with challenging tenant situations.
Locations: Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
Closing costs: Dependable Homebuyers will often pay closing costs
Clients highly appreciate the services of Dependable Homebuyers, highlighting their professionalism and understanding nature. Many express satisfaction with the company’s approach to real estate consulting. The overall experience with Dependable Homebuyers is described as positive and efficient, and they come highly recommended for those seeking real estate consultation. The ease of collaboration and the company’s expertise make them a preferred choice for many D.C. area home sellers. Google rating is 5.0.
Website: dependablehomebuyers.com
Phone number: 855-741-4848
Why sell your DC house for cash?
There are many valid reasons a Washington, D.C., home seller may choose to work with a Cash-For-Homes company. The benefits of speed, certainty, and remarkable convenience are leading the list.
In Washington, D.C., it typically takes around 73 days to sell a home on the market using an agent. That includes an average of 30 days on the market, plus the typical 43 days a buyer needs to close on a purchase loan.
Compare that to the typical seven to 10 days promised by many house-buying companies in Washington, D.C., and it’s clear why these Cash-For-Homes groups are an attractive option, even though they don’t always offer top dollar for the homes they purchase.
Let’s explore some common scenarios in which Washington, D.C., homeowners might find selling to a We Buy Houses for Cash company to be the most fitting option.
- Significant repair needs: If your home requires substantial repairs, such as fixing a damaged roof or addressing water damage, selling to a cash buyer can save you the time and money required for these renovations.
- Quick relocation: Whether due to a job transfer, divorce, or other personal reasons, if you need to move quickly, a cash sale can expedite the process.
- Lack of funds for repairs: If you can’t afford or don’t want to invest in the necessary repairs to prepare your home for a traditional sale, a cash buyer can be an attractive option.
- Avoiding sales hassle: Selling your home for cash can help you bypass the stress and effort of staging your home, coordinating showings, and negotiating with potential buyers.
- Privacy concerns: If you prefer a more discreet sale without listing your home publicly, selling to a cash buyer can provide the privacy you desire.
- Foreclosure looming: If you’re facing foreclosure, selling your home for cash can help you quickly settle your mortgage debt and mitigate further damage to your credit history.
- Inherited property: If you’ve inherited a house that you don’t want to keep, a cash sale offers a fast and convenient way to unload it.
- Relieving landlord duties: If you no longer want the responsibility of managing a rental property, or if you’re dealing with difficult tenants, a cash sale can provide a way out.
- Senior living transition: If you or a family member are moving into a senior living facility or joining another family member, selling for cash can ease the transition.
- Out-of-state ownership: If you live outside of Washington, D.C., and own a property in the city, a cash sale can simplify the process and save you the time and hassle of traveling back and forth.
If you find yourself in any of these situations, considering a cash offer from a We Buy Houses company might be a smart choice. But before making a final decision, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons and explore all your options.
Pros and cons of house-buying companies in DC
House-buying companies in Washington, D.C., can provide a quick and hassle-free selling process, but there are also trade-offs to consider.
Pros
Selling to a house-buying company in Washington, D.C., offers several advantages, especially if you need a fast sale or your home requires significant repairs.
Here are some key benefits to keep in mind:
- Speedy sale: House-buying companies can typically make an offer within 24-48 hours and close within a week or two, allowing you to move on quickly.
- As-is purchase: These companies will buy your home in any condition, so you don’t need to worry about making repairs or upgrades before selling.
- Fewer fees to keep track of: You bypass traditional selling expenses like listing fees, agent commissions, and closing costs.
- Certainty in the sale: You can plan on the sale going through. No worrying about contingencies or buyer financing that can delay or kill a deal.
- Less hassle: Without the need for showings, negotiations, or a lengthy closing process, selling to a house-buying company can be a simpler and less stressful experience.
Cons
There are also some drawbacks to consider when selling your home to a house-buying company. The most significant disadvantage is that you will likely receive fewer proceeds from your home sale.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Lower offers: House-buying companies typically offer less than market value for your home, as they need to cover their costs and make a profit.
- Limited competition: Unlike listing your home on the open market, where multiple buyers may compete for your property, you’ll only receive an offer from one company.
- Less transparency: House-buying companies might not provide as much information about their valuation process or the local real estate market as an experienced agent would.
- No professional guidance: When selling to a cash buyer, you won’t have the support and advice of a real estate agent to help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.
Can face pressure tactics: Cash-For-Home companies know that homeowners seeking a rapid sale are often facing a desperate situation. While many provide real solutions, some outfits might take advantage of this urgency by using pressure tactics. There are also scams to watch out for.
It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of selling your home to a house-buying company in Washington, D.C. Once you understand the advantages and drawbacks, you can make a more informed decision that best suits your unique situation.
Curious What Your Home Is Worth?
Get a near-instant real estate house price estimate from HomeLight for free. Our tool analyzes the records of recently sold homes near you, your home’s last sale price, and other market trends to provide a preliminary range of value in under two minutes.
Vet cash buyers and know your DC home’s worth
Your experience with a Washington, D.C., house-buying company will largely depend on the integrity and professionalism of the individuals or group making the offer. Before accepting any cash offer, it’s essential to thoroughly vet the company. Look for online reviews, read testimonials from previous sellers, and research the company’s presence and performance in the local market.
Moreover, as with any legally binding agreement, it’s crucial to carefully review the buying agreement before signing it. HomeLight suggests you consult with an experienced D.C. area real estate agent to get a better idea of what your home might be worth if sold on the open market. Then compare your cash offer.
HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing agent in your market. You can also use HomeLight’s Home Value Estimator to get an initial ballpark estimate in less than two minutes.
Other options to sell your DC home quickly
Buyers
iBuyers, or instant buyers, use automated valuation models (AVMs) to provide near-instant home value estimates, leading to a streamlined, mostly online home sale process.
These national house-buying groups offer all-cash deals, typically closer to market value for homes in better condition, with quick closings. Yet, services like Opendoor and Offerpad charge fees of 5%-6% and work best for sellers in neighborhoods with more uniform housing and homes in good condition.
Listing with an agent
For those looking to sell quickly, working with a top real estate agent may still be an alternative to house-buying companies. In seller-friendly markets, well-priced, well-marketed homes can sell fast. HomeLight data indicates top agents can sell homes for up to 10% more than average agents.
Trusted agents provide valuable insights through a comparative market analysis (CMA), a tool to evaluate your home’s value based on similar recent sales. A CMA, which many agents offer for free, can help you set an appropriate listing price and estimate sale speed.
Experienced agents may also connect you with cash buyers in the D.C. area offering closer to market value. Consultation with an agent helps you explore options and make informed decisions. HomeLight can connect you with top-performing agents in your area.
FAQs about DC house-buying companies
By and large, most We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Washington, D.C., are legitimate businesses. Their services and transaction fees may differ, but the business model has been around for decades. If you use an established group with a track record, you can be fairly confident that it’s legit.
That said, as with any financial transaction, it’s a good idea to be on the alert for scams. Always research companies before you sign a contract. Check customer reviews, look at their online presence, verify professional licenses, get a referral if possible, and vet the company on the Better Business Bureau website. Watch for anything that just doesn’t seem right.
As described in our pros and cons list above, most D.C. We Buy Houses for Cash companies apply the 70% rule, meaning they’ll offer you about 70% of your home’s after-repair value, minus their estimated repair costs.
Here’s an example of what a simplified formula might look like:
(Your home’s ARV x .70) – repair costs
To see how this might work in a real-world scenario, let’s take a look at an example offer equation. Let’s say your Washington, D.C. Colonial could sell for $630,000 after repairs, but it’s going to need $30,000 of work to get there.
($630,000 x .70) – $30,000 = $411,000
In this example, a Washington, D.C. We Buy Houses company might offer you around $411,000 for your home.
However, different types of house-buying companies will offer varying amounts for homes. As mentioned previously, iBuyers tend to pay more than We Buy Houses companies because iBuyers look for homes in better condition. An iBuyer might pay you 90% or more of market value while charging a fee for their services.
When you accept an offer from a We Buy Houses for Cash company in D.C., you will likely be coming to grips with a two-edged sword. On the one side, it shouldn’t cost you any additional money because these companies make an offer and handle almost everything once the offer is accepted. On the other side, you’ll likely get less money overall for your home.
Because We Buy Houses for Cash companies tend to focus on distressed homes, they typically have zero fees. Many will even cover your closing costs. In most cases, this means that the cash offer you receive is going to be the price you walk away with at the end of the deal. Of course, it’s always a good idea to flat-out ask the company if there are any hidden program fees that might impact your bottom line.
- Research and vet the house-buying companies in Washington, D.C., that serve your area. Our list above is a good place to start.
- Submit offer requests to a few of the companies you like best.
- Schedule any required on-site property visits.
- Compare offers. Weigh the pros and cons and choose the best option for you.
- Close the sale in a week to 30 days and get paid. (Some companies will let you choose a closing date up to 90 days after accepting the offer, which can be helpful when planning a move.)
We Buy Houses for Cash in DC vs. top DC agent
Another helpful exercise is to compare how a D.C. We Buy Houses for Cash company might stack up against working with a real estate agent. Let’s take a glance at how different aspects of the sale might look, and compare possible proceeds.
| Aspect of the sale | Sell to a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Washington, D.C. | Sell with a top Realtor in Washington, D.C. |
| Selling timeline | 7 to 30 days | 73 days average; 30 to attract an offer, 43 to close the loan |
| Home preparations | None | Deep clean, declutter, make necessary repairs, landscape, stage home |
| Showings | None | 10 to 25 showings average |
| Inspections / repairs | None | May need to make additional repairs for the buyer or renegotiate the price |
| Appraisal | None | May need to lower your asking price if the appraisal comes in low |
| Title search | Cash-For-Homes companies often handle title issues | Must clear title before you can sell home |
| Financing contingency | None | Mortgaged buyers use a financing contingency that could hold up the deal if the buyer’s loan doesn’t clear |
| Agent commission | None | 5.8% average |
| Closing costs | None | 1% to 3% of the home sale price on top of agent commission |
Example net proceeds
Below, we’ve put together one example of how net proceeds may differ between selling a home to a We Buy Houses for Cash company and an agent-assisted sale.
Let’s say your home in Washington, D.C. is currently worth about $630,000 and needs about $55,000 in repairs. Once the repairs are completed, the home might be worth around $685,000.
| Sell to a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Washington, D.C. | Sell with a top Realtor in Washington, D.C. | |
| Estimated sale price | ($685,000 x .70) – $55,000 = $424,500 | $630,000 |
| Market preparations | 0 | $6,300 (1% of sale price) |
| Agent commissions | 0 | $36,540 (5.8% of sale price) |
| Closing costs | 0 | $9,450 (1.5%) |
| Estimated take-home for seller | $424,500 | $577,710 |
As this example illustrates, financially, it’s usually in your best interest to partner with an experienced real estate agent.
However, net proceeds are not the only consideration when selling a home. What’s best in your situation will depend on the condition of your D.C. property, what level of repairs are needed, and your selling objectives. It could be that selling on the open market will be a challenge in your area, or the agent timeline might not fit your immediate needs.
Key takeaways
- Speed and convenience: We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Washington, D.C., offer quick closings, and you don’t have to worry about home repairs or preparations.
- Lower offers: These companies typically offer below-market-value prices for your home compared to traditional sales through a real estate agent.
- Vet buyers: Before committing to any offer, vet the house-buying company thoroughly. Look for reviews, testimonials, and research its performance in the market.
- Know your home’s worth: Get a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a trusted real estate agent to determine an appropriate listing price for your home and how quickly it might sell. You can get a preliminary estimate using HomeLight’s Home Value Estimator.
- Simple Sale makes it easy: Get a no-obligation, all-cash offer for your home in almost any condition in D.C. with HomeLight’s Simple Sale. It can be a great starting point if you aren’t sure who would buy your home.
- Explore all options: Consider alternatives such as iBuyers and listing with a top agent in your area for potentially higher offers and additional selling options.
Even when the home-sale clock is ticking, you deserve to make an informed and confident decision that aligns with your goals and needs. Consider consulting with a top Washington, D.C. agent for expert insights on how soon, and for how much, your property might sell on the market.
Let HomeLight assist you in navigating your real estate journey and ensure you’re making the best choice for your unique situation.
Header Image Source: (Yeon Choi / Unsplash)