5 Top We Buy Houses for Cash Companies in Portland
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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.
Navigating the real estate market in Portland can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the need for a quick sale, or if you feel overwhelmed with imminent moving plans. Whether your home requires repairs or you’re dealing with an unexpected life change, “We Buy Houses” companies in Portland offer a fast, convenient solution.
House-buying companies provide all-cash offers for homes that need some TLC or a fast closing. These businesses provide a lifeline for those who might lack the time, expertise, or funds to tackle home improvements. A cash sale means you can swiftly secure the proceeds and move on. But is this a good option for your situation?
In this guide, we’ll provide insights into the process and the pros and cons of such deals to weigh your options and make an informed decision.
Sell Your House Fast in Portland 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 Portland.
Disclaimer: This post is meant to be used for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Links and mentions of Portland area “We Buy Houses” companies should not be considered an endorsement.
Working with house-buying companies in Portland
For many homeowners in Portland, the traditional route of selling a home might not be the most practical or efficient. Working with house-buying companies offers a streamlined alternative. Here’s an example of how the process typically works:
- Research and select a company: Start by looking up house-buying companies in Portland. Read reviews, check their credentials, and verify their reputation within the community. When you select one, you’ll be asked to provide basic details about your property.
- Schedule a home inspection: The company will likely want to assess your home’s condition. This isn’t a traditional inspection; it’s usually quicker and less detailed.
- Receive an offer: Based on the assessment, the company will present you with an all-cash offer. This usually happens quickly, sometimes within a day. Examine the offer’s details, ensuring you understand all terms, conditions, and any fees involved.
- Accept or reject the offer: If you’re satisfied with the offer, accept it. Be certain it meets your expectations and needs. These are no-obligation offers, so feel free to shop around.
- Close the deal and move on: House-buying companies often expedite the closing process. In Portland, you could close in as little as a week, depending on the company.
Popular We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Portland
If the process of selling to a house-buying company in Portland 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 parents’ Laurelhurst Craftsman Bungalow or your Mid-century modern split-level home. By selling to one of these companies, you should be able to sell your Portland home in as little as a week or two.
Better Off Home Buyers
Better Off Home Buyers is a family-owned real estate solutions company rooted in Portland. Dedicated to offering win-win solutions, they assist homeowners facing challenging situations, such as foreclosure, burdensome properties, probate, and various other circumstances. Their holistic approach ensures homeowners find resolutions tailored to their unique issues. Through their commitment to provide continuous support, Better Off Home Buyers stands out by focusing on the personal side of real estate, ensuring homeowners can effortlessly and promptly navigate their housing challenges and continue enjoying their lives.
Locations: Portland
Closing costs: Better Off Home Buyers often pays for closing costs.
Better Off Home Buyers has received glowing reviews from its clientele. Customers appreciate the company’s transparent, honest, and patient approach, often going above and beyond by offering flexibility, such as giving extra time for homeowners to move out. Many find the selling process, even for properties in as-is condition, to be smooth and hassle-free. From prompt communication to waiving the need for repairs and inspections, the company strives to provide fair pricing and swift closings. Google rating is 4.8.
Website: betteroffhomebuyers.com
Phone number: 888-827-0889
Simple Sale (a HomeLight platform)
Simple Sale, a solution from HomeLight, is an online platform where sellers in Portland (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 Portland.
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 Portland
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
Portland Cash Buyers
Portland Cash Buyers is dedicated to assisting homeowners in achieving their real estate goals. With a firm belief in the value of integrity, the company prioritizes transparent communication, ensuring homeowners are always informed about the sale’s progress. Their experience and honed skills make them experts in their field, but it’s their commitment to professionalism, courtesy, and timeliness that sets them apart. Recognizing the uncertainties homeowners face, they emphasize performance as a core value, assuring clients of the reliability of their agreements. Additionally, they offer flexibility in terms and arrangements, adapting to each homeowner’s unique requirements.
Locations: Portland
Closing costs: Seller pays no closing costs; Portland Home Buyers covers them
Portland Cash Buyers has been BBB accredited since 2019 and currently holds an A+ rating. Portland Cash Buyers consistently receives high praise for their accommodating and efficient service. Customers have noted the company’s swift response to unique situations and their ability to close transactions quickly. A standout feature mentioned by several reviewers is the company’s understanding and flexibility, especially during emotionally challenging times such as the sale of a family home after a loved one’s passing. The overall impression is that Portland Cash Buyers is a professional, caring, and reliable company. Google rating is 5.0.
Website: portlandcashbuyers.com
Phone number: 503-770-0145
Shona Buys Houses
Shona Buys Houses, a family-owned real estate solutions company based in Portland, emerged years ago to address a gap in the local property market. Recognizing that many homeowners were limited to traditional selling methods that didn’t always cater to their unique circumstances, the company set out to offer versatile, win-win solutions. They’ve since built a reputation for helping property owners navigate challenges such as foreclosure, probate, or owning burdensome properties. With their client-centric approach, Shona Buys Houses strives to help Portland homeowners move forward and focus on what they cherish most in life.
Locations: Portland
Closing costs: Shona Buys Houses often pays for closing costs
Shona Buys Houses has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from clients, emphasizing the company’s reliability, professionalism, and compassion. Customers appreciate the feeling of being valued and the attentive service. Many were initially skeptical about the “We buy homes” concept but were pleasantly surprised by Shona’s transparency, integrity, and the lack of pressure. The process is described as fast and hassle-free, with the added benefit of handling tenant situations on behalf of homeowners. Overall, Shona Buys Houses is recommended for its stellar service and dedication to customer satisfaction. Google rating is 4.9.
Website: shonabuyshouses.com
Phone number: 503-389-3122
Bridgeview Cash For Homes
Bridgeview Cash For Homes boasts over two decades of real estate investing expertise in the Portland and Vancouver regions. This family-owned enterprise stands out with a dual license in both real estate investment and remodeling, allowing the company to provide a premium, all-cash offer for homes. Their rich experience in rejuvenating older homes to their initial allure and expertise in handling properties of varied conditions, including foreclosures and short sales, underscore their comprehensive capability. Valued for their fairness, honesty, and grounded approach, they offer swift cash purchases for a range of properties.
Locations: Portland, surrounding areas, and Vancouver, Washington.
Closing costs: Seller pays no closing costs; Bridgeview Cash for Homes covers them
Clients express high satisfaction when working with Bridgeview Cash For Homes, specifically highlighting the ease and speed of their real estate transactions. Particularly notable is their capability to swiftly purchase homes, even those in need of repair that might be challenging for conventional buyers to finance. David, a representative from the company, frequently stands out for his prompt communication, flexibility, and straightforward approach. Overall, the reviews paint Bridgeview as a reliable choice for those seeking hassle-free property sales, with many clients eager to recommend or work with them again. Google rating is 5.0.
Website: cashforhomespdx.com
Phone number: 503-998-3900
Why sell your Portland house for cash?
There are plenty of valid reasons a Portland home seller may choose to work with a Cash-For-Homes company. Leading the list are the benefits of speed, certainty, and remarkable convenience.
In Portland, it typically takes around 76 days to sell a home on the market using an agent. That includes an average of 33 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 Portland, 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.
Here are some common scenarios where selling your Portland house for cash could be a fitting solution:
- Immediate relocation: You’re relocating for work, a divorce, or other personal reasons and need to sell your home quickly without the typical listing process.
- Major repairs needed: Your home has issues like a leaking roof or foundational problems, which are costly and time-consuming to address.
- Financial hardships: Whether due to job loss, medical bills, or other unforeseen expenses, you need a quick influx of cash.
- Avoiding foreclosure: You’re on the brink of foreclosure and wish to sell swiftly to avoid further credit complications.
- Inherited properties: You’ve inherited a home in Portland and want a hassle-free way to liquidate this asset. This can be especially helpful if you live out of state.
- Landlord burnout: Managing rental properties isn’t for everyone. Maybe you’re tired of dealing with tenants or property upkeep.
- Privacy concerns: You’d prefer a discreet sale, away from the public eye and without multiple house showings.
- Downsizing or upsizing: Life changes might mean you need a smaller or larger space, and selling your current home fast aids that transition.
- Age or health reasons: You or a family member may be transitioning to assisted living or a care facility, making a speedy home sale preferable.
Choosing a Portland cash-for-homes company in such scenarios offers relief and a straightforward path forward. That said, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and review your other options so you can make a well-informed decision.
Pros and cons of house-buying companies in Portland
Portland We Buy Houses For Cash companies offer an alternative to traditional home sales, but it’s wise to carefully evaluate the upsides and potential drawbacks before you commit to taking this route.
The Upsides
At the heart of the appeal for house-buying companies lies their promise of speed and hassle-free transactions. They’ll take your Portland home as-is, sparing you from repair bills or staging endeavors. Here’s a concise look at the main benefits:
- Quick sales: Often, you can close the deal in mere days or weeks, providing immediate relief from mortgage or other financial burdens, and tight moving deadlines.
- No repair requirements: Whether your home needs a new roof or just some fresh paint, these companies buy it as-is, meaning no out-of-pocket costs for you.
- Simple process: Bypassing traditional listing, showings, and negotiations simplifies the selling process, making it less stressful for homeowners.
- Guaranteed offer: Unlike traditional sales, there’s no waiting or wondering if a buyer will come through. The offer from the company is firm.
The Downsides
However, the cash-offer convenience comes at a cost. The most significant trade-off is usually the lower selling price. Here’s what you might want to consider:
- Below-market offers: House-buying companies need to turn a profit. As a result, they typically offer below-the-market rate for your home.
- Limited negotiation: With a straightforward offer, there’s often little to no room for price negotiation or changes to terms.
- Potential for scams: Not all cash-for-homes companies are reputable. It’s crucial to do thorough research to avoid fraudulent operations.
- Risk of pressure tactics: While most Cash-For-Homes companies operating in Portland are honorable, there is a risk of getting involved with a group that may use pressure tactics to take advantage of your urgent situation. It’s important to thoroughly vet each company you’re considering.
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 home’s worth
When choosing a We Buy Houses for Cash company, it’s essential to remember that the integrity and service quality of these businesses can vary. Your experience will largely depend on the character and professionalism of the individuals or group making the offer.
Before diving into a cash deal, ensure you vet the company meticulously. Read through online reviews, testimonials, and study their market reputation and presence. Additionally, it’s crucial to pore over the buying agreement in detail. Understand every clause and condition before placing your signature.
HomeLight suggests you consult with an experienced Portland 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 area. 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 home quickly
iBuyers
iBuyers (instant buyers) leverage automated valuation models (AVMs) to offer instant home valuations, making the selling process quick and mostly online. Originating in the mid-2010s, they give all-cash offers, often closer to market value, for homes in good condition. The entire transaction can wrap up in days to two weeks
However, popular iBuyers like Offerpad and Opendoor charge service fees ranging from 5%-6%, and they best serve homeowners with standard houses in good shape.
Listing with an agent
While this post is focused on We Buy Houses companies, considering a traditional sale with an experienced Portland real estate agent can be beneficial, especially in a seller-friendly market. Well-priced, well-marketed homes can sell fast. Typically, selling through agents yields a higher price, with top agents securing up to 10% more, according to HomeLight transaction data.
In addition, a comparative market analysis (CMA) provided by an agent can offer valuable insights into your home’s value and guide its listing price. Many agents in Portland offer free CMAs to help sellers evaluate their options. Some agents might even link you with local cash buyers offering a more competitive price.
Interested in this route? HomeLight can connect you with top local agents to guide your next steps.
FAQs on Portland house-buying companies
By and large, most We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Portland 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 Portland 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 Portland Bungalow could sell for $530,000 after repairs, but it’s going to need $30,000 of work to get there.
($530,000 x .70) – $30,000 = $341,000
In this example, a Portland We Buy Houses company might offer you around $488,010 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 Portland We Buy Houses for Cash company, 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 that serve your Portland 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 Portland vs. top Portland agent
Another helpful exercise is to compare how a 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 Portland | Sell with a top Realtor in Portland |
| Selling timeline | 7 to 30 days | 76 days average; 33 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 Portland is currently worth about $530,000 and needs about $25,000 in repairs. Once the repairs are completed, the home might be worth around $555,000.
| Sell to a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Portland | Sell with a top Realtor in Portland | |
| Estimated sale price | ($555,000 x .70) – $25,000 = $363,500 | $530,000 |
| Market preparations | 0 | $5,300 (1% of sale price) |
| Agent commissions | 0 | $30,740 (5.8% of sale price) |
| Closing costs | 0 | $7,950 (1.5%) |
| Estimated take-home for seller | $363,500 | $486,010 |
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 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: Selling to a house-buying company in Portland offers a fast sale without the need for home repairs, staging, and showings.
- Below market value: These companies typically provide offers below the potential market value you might achieve with a traditional home sale. You must weigh the tradeoff to determine if the cash price fits your selling objectives.
- Vet the cash-offer company: It’s essential to vet the business or individual making the offer to ensure it’s a trustworthy buyer.
- Compare your options: iBuyers and top Portland real estate agents provide alternative solutions for selling your home, potentially at a higher offer price.
- Know your home’s value: Before you commit to a We Buy Houses company, equip yourself with all the necessary information, such as a comparative market analysis, so you know what your Portland home is worth.
Closing your home sale is a significant step, and it’s wise to gather multiple offers and truly weigh your choices, even if the clock is ticking on your next move. For some, the convenience of a fast cash offer can’t be beat.
At HomeLight, we’re here to assist you with your real estate needs, whether you’re looking for a no-obligation cash offer from a trusted company or seeking to consult with a top Portland agent to help you sell at a higher price. Let us help you make an informed and confident decision.
Header Source: (Zachary Keimig / Unsplash)
