elling your home on your own—known as “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO)—can seem daunting, but in Central Virginia it’s a proven path for homeowners who need speed, control, and savings. In 2024, only 6% of sellers went FSBO, while 90% used an agent National Association of REALTORS®. Despite the low adoption rate, FSBO can be the fastest and most cost-effective route—if you know your options and pitfalls.
Why Sell Without a Realtor?
- Save on Commissions. Agent fees average 5–6% of your sale price. On a $380,000 FSBO sale versus $435,000 agent-assisted sale, you keep an extra $22,800—even accounting for a slightly lower final price National Association of REALTORS®.
- Faster Closings. Traditional sales often take 55–70 days from listing to close. FSBO homes can close in as little as 30 days when you sell for cash Zillow.
- Control & Privacy. You set your price, terms, and schedule—no back-and-forth with an agent’s marketing plan or open houses.
Your Options for a Quick Sale
- Cash Buyers
- Pros: Instant proof of funds, no lender delays, close in 7–14 days.
- Cons: Offers may be 10–15% below market.
- Tip: Frame your listing “We buy houses Richmond VA” to attract serious cash buyers who value speed.
- Owner Financing (Seller Financing)
- What It Is: You act as the lender, carrying a promissory note and collecting payments over time InvestopediaInvestopedia.
- Pros: Higher sale price, steady income stream, appeal to buyers with credit challenges.
- Cons: Risk of default, more paperwork, and potential legal complexity.
- Ideal For: Sellers who don’t need full cash at closing and can wait for monthly payments.
- Term Sales (Lease-Purchase / Rent-to-Own)
- How It Works: Buyer rents with an option to buy; part of rent goes toward the purchase price Investopedia.
- Pros: Attracts tenants who plan to buy; less price negotiation upfront.
- Cons: Long timeline; you remain responsible for maintenance until sale.
How to Choose the Right Local Buyer
- Verify Proof of Funds. Insist on bank statements or a lender letter.
- Check Track Record. Search online reviews or ask for references from past deals.
- Clarify Timeline. Outline specific closing dates in writing.
- County Expertise. Prefer buyers familiar with Chesterfield, Henrico, Prince George, or your local county page (e.g., We Buy Houses in Chesterfield).
Step-by-Step Process with Richmond Property Buyers
- Submit Your Property Details
- Fill out our quick form with address, condition, and photos.
- Get a No-Obligation Cash Offer
- We analyze comparables, repair estimates, and local comps (Henrico, Chesterfield, Hanover).
- Review & Accept
- Decide on cash, owner-financing, or term-sale structure.
- Close & Get Paid
- Sign paperwork at your convenience; we cover all standard closing costs.
- Move On
- Walk away—no staging, showings, or commissions required.
Ready to Sell Fast?
Whether you want cash, owner-financing, or term sales, Richmond Property Buyers makes it simple. Skip the agent fees and timeline hassles—take control of your sale today.