5 Top We Buy Houses for Cash Companies in DC
- Published on
- 15 min read
-
Richard Haddad Executive EditorClose
Richard Haddad Executive EditorRichard Haddad is the executive 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.
Selling your home in Washington, D.C., during a significant life transition, such as a job relocation or a divorce, can be overwhelming. Addressing necessary repairs, preparing the property for the market, conducting open houses, and negotiating with buyers only worsens the stress. Fortunately, there is a viable solution: partnering with “We Buy Houses” D.C. companies.
These firms streamline the selling process by providing instant cash offers. With a cash sale, you can 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.
Sell Your House Fast in DC With an All-Cash Offer
Get an all-cash, no-obligation offer through HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform whenever you’re ready. Receive your offer in 24 hours and close in as few as 10 days. No showings, no repairs, no open houses. Available to sellers throughout Washington, D.C.
Working with house-buying companies in Washington, D.C.
House-buying companies can make the selling process quick and easy, closing in a matter of days. To know if this option suits your goals and manage expectations, below is a breakdown of the process of selling your house for cash:
- 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 to 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 Washington, D.C.
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 working with 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 been dedicated to helping homeowners across Washington avoid the complications of traditional home sales by offering a faster, more straightforward alternative. The company provides a streamlined process that eliminates the need for agents, listings, and lengthy timelines.
With a focus on efficiency and transparency, they deliver a hassle-free experience from offer to closing. The competent team can finalize transactions within seven days.
Locations: Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; 4 Brothers Buy Houses covers them.
Recognized for its high ethical standards in delivering services, 4 Brothers Buy Houses has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2016 and holds an A+ rating. The company consistently receives high praise from clients for its swift and smooth homebuying process. Customers commend the team’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. Its Google Business Profile has an impressive 4.8-star rating.
Website: 4brothersbuyhouses.com
Phone number: 202-601-4928
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. It features one of the largest networks 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 this platform, you can get a no-obligation, all-cash offer in as little as 24 hours and sell your home in as few as 7 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 platform by HomeLight, a real estate solutions company founded in 2012. Given its strong focus on excellent customer service, it received BBB accreditation in 2019 and now holds an impressive A+ rating. The company has 4.6 stars on Google based on hundreds of 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.
Website: 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. Its dedication to 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 facilitates a prompt and seamless experience for all sellers.
The team guides homeowners through every step of the selling process, offering direct support from start to finish. Moreover, it lets homeowners close in as little as two weeks. Its 100% transparency mantra, coupled with no hidden costs, makes the business a trusted choice in the industry.
Locations: Washington, D.C., and other states, such as Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; Metro Cash Buyers covers them.
Committed to creating a positive customer experience, Metro Cash Buyers received a perfect 5-star Google review rating. Clients frequently highlight the company’s honest and transparent approach throughout the selling process. Individual team members are noted for their 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.
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. Known for its quick and efficient service, it makes same-day offers, even virtually, ensuring a discreet and hassle-free process.
Whether a homeowner is relocating, dealing with an inheritance, facing foreclosure, or simply looking to sell an unwanted property, Capitol Cash Offer stands out as a trusted solution. The company guarantees all written offers, can close deals within seven to 14 days, even covering moving costs. Its 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: Sellers pay no closing costs; Capitol Cash Offer covers them.
Capitol Cash Offer holds a perfect 5-star Google review rating. Customers consistently laud the company for its professional, understanding approach and high-quality service. They appreciate the team’s dedication to addressing individual needs and circumstances, particularly when dealing with difficult properties or personal attachments to homes.
Multiple reviews commend the team for their patient demeanor and respectful communication, allowing homeowners the time and clarity to make well-informed choices. The combination of market knowledge and readiness to assist, even in complicated situations like properties with squatters, sets Capitol Cash Offer apart.
While not BBB accredited, the company received a high A+ grade from the bureau.
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 and divorce to unwanted inheritance, the firm is notable for its swift response times.
Within 24 hours of being contacted, it provides comprehensive research on the property and presents a free, no-obligation offer. Its unique selling proposition is 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: Sellers pay no closing costs; Dependable Homebuyers covers them.
Dependable Homebuyers earned a high Google rating of 5 stars. A client commends the company for delivering excellent service with a professional and empathetic approach. They share how smooth the process was, as the team was supportive throughout the transaction.
Although Dependable Homebuyers is not BBB accredited, it earned a notable A+ rating from the bureau.
Website: dependablehomebuyers.com
Phone number: 855-741-4848
Why sell your Washington, D.C. house for cash?
If you’ve ever sold your home through the traditional real estate market, you know the process can drag on for months, and there’s no guarantee of a sale. But when you sell to a We Buy Houses company, you’re looking at a guaranteed sale in just a matter of days. Speed, convenience, and certainty are the top reasons many homeowners choose to work with a cash-for-homes firm.
In Washington, D.C., selling a home on the open market using an agent takes around 91 days. That includes an average of 50 days listed on the market until a signed contract, plus the usual 41 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: If you need to move quickly due to a job transfer, divorce, or other personal reasons, 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.
- Traditional sale hassles: 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 off-market sale, selling to a cash buyer lets you avoid listing your home publicly.
- Foreclosure risk: 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.
- Unwanted inheritance: If you’ve inherited a house you don’t want to keep, a cash sale offers a fast and convenient way to unload it.
- Landlord fatigue: 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.
- Downsizing transition: If you or a family member are downsizing and moving into a senior living facility or joining another family member, selling for cash can ease the transition.
- Remote home sale: If you live outside of Washington, D.C., and own a property in the city, working with house buying companies can simplify the process of selling your home from out of state 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 Washington, D.C.
A house-buying company in Washington, D.C., offers a faster, simpler alternative to the traditional listing process, often with cash offers and flexible closings. But while the convenience is appealing, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
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 to 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: You bypass traditional selling expenses like listing fees, agent commissions, and closing costs.
- Guaranteed sale: You can count on the deal going through. There’s no need to worry 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 disadvantages 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: By skipping the open market and selling to a house-buying company, you may miss out on a potential bidding war that could drive up your home’s final sale price.
- 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.
- 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. Without due diligence, you may fall victim to homebuying scams.
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 D.C. 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, 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. As with any legally binding agreement, it’s crucial to carefully review the buying agreement before signing it.
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 D.C. You can also try our Home Value Estimator to get an initial ballpark estimate in less than two minutes.
Other options to sell your D.C. home quickly
Working with iBuyers
Instant buyers, or iBuyers, 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, major iBuyer companies like Opendoor and Offerpad charge fees of 5% to 6% of the home’s sale price. This option works 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 introduce you to 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 on Washington, D.C. 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 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 BBB website. Watch for anything that just doesn’t seem right.
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, then deduct 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 $752,000 after repairs, but it’s going to need $55,000 of work to get there.
($752,000 x .70) – $55,000 = $471,400
In this example, a Washington, D.C., We Buy Houses company might offer you around $471,400 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 they look for homes in better condition. They might pay you 90% or more of the 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 Washington, D.C. vs. top Washington, D.C. 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 | 91 days average; 50 to attract an offer, 41 to close the loan |
| Home preparations | None | Deep clean, declutter, make necessary repairs, landscape, and stage the home |
| Showings | None | 10 to 25 showings on average |
| Inspections and 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 the title before you can sell the 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 | 3% to 6% of the home’s sale price |
| Closing costs | None | 1% to 3% of the home’s sale price on top of the agent’s 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 $697,000 and needs about $55,000 in repairs. Once the repairs are completed, the home might be worth around $752,000.
| 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 | ($752,000 x .70) – $55,000 = $471,400 | $697,000 |
| Market preparations | 0 | $6,970 (1% of the sale price) |
| Agent commissions | 0 | $20,910 (3% of the sale price) |
| Closing costs | 0 | $10,455 (1.5% of the sale price) |
| Estimated take-home for the seller | $471,400 | $658,665 |
As this example illustrates, it’s usually in your best financial 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, the level of repairs needed, and your selling objectives. It could be that selling on the open market will be a challenge in your area, or the agent’s timeline might not fit your immediate needs.
Key takeaways
- Speedy, convenient transaction: 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.
- Due diligence: Before committing to any offer, vet the house-buying company thoroughly. Look for reviews and testimonials, and research its performance in the market.
- Property value insights: 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 also try HomeLight’s Home Value Estimator for an instant estimate.
- Legitimate cash buyers: 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.
- Quick selling 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.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Washington, D.C. area “We Buy Houses” companies are not endorsements. Moreover, the program details mentioned above may change. Visit the home-buying company’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Header Image Source: (Yeon Choi / Unsplash)
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.