Getting Started
Getting Started How does your cash offer process work?
Simple four-step flow:
- Tell us about the property. Address, condition, timeline, occupancy, and any constraints (liens, probate, HOA, tenants).
- We run the numbers. We review comps (distance, date, condition), repair ranges, holding costs, and exit strategy.
- You compare options. Cash as-is, or alternatives like novation/creative finance/agent referral—whatever nets your goals.
- Close on your timeline. Days after clear title or a later date that fits your move. We can coordinate post-occupancy when appropriate.
Everything is documented in writing. You’ll see how we arrived at the number so you can decide with confidence.
Getting Started What information do you need to start?
- Property address and basic details (beds/baths, square footage if known)
- Current condition and recent updates (roof, HVAC, plumbing, foundation)
- Timeline goals and constraints (job relocation, inheritance, pre-foreclosure, vacancy)
- Occupancy status (owner-occupied, tenant, vacant)
- Known liens, HOA, permits, or insurance claims
If you don’t have everything handy, start anyway—our intake team will fill in gaps with public records and a quick call.
Getting Started Are you real estate agents?
No—we’re a home-buying company. We purchase homes directly and also offer alternative pathways (like novation or agent referral) if they better fit your goals. You’re always free to choose the route that nets you the best outcome.
Explore related guidance: Florida: Sell Fast for Cash · 2025 Metro Value Trends
Offers & Pricing
Offers & Pricing How do you calculate my offer?
We start with ARV (After-Repair Value) based on recent, nearby comparable sales matched for style, size, and condition. Then we subtract:
- Renovation scope (with ranges when uncertain)
- Holding costs (taxes, insurance, utilities, capital, timeline risk)
- Disposition costs (title, escrow, closing, resale fees)
- Operational margin to sustain the business and risk
You’ll see a simple net sheet so the math is clear—no black box.
Offers & Pricing Can you match or beat another offer?
Often—share the written offer and assumptions. We’ll walk through comps and repair scope; sometimes we match or beat, other times a competitor really is your best path. We’ll tell you straight.
Offers & Pricing Do you charge commissions or hidden fees?
No commissions. Typical closing/title costs are disclosed in writing before signing. No junk fees. If something changes (e.g., title defects), we document the delta and options.
Offers & Pricing What if inspection reveals more damage?
We price risk honestly. If new, material information surfaces, we present documented changes to scope and re-run the math together. No “gotcha” renegotiations.
Condition & Repairs
Condition Will you buy my home as-is—even with major repairs?
Yes. We buy homes as-is across conditions—dated interiors, foundation issues, roof, plumbing, fire/flood/smoke damage, code violations, or unfinished projects. You don’t need to clean or stage.
Read more: Selling with Flood Damage (FL) · Haunted or Quirky Properties
Repairs Should I fix my house or sell as-is?
It depends on your timeline, capital, and risk tolerance. Use our interactive guide: “Fix It or Flip It?” You’ll get a personalized recommendation and a 24-hour as-is number.
Insurance What if there’s an open insurance claim?
No problem—just disclose it. We coordinate with title and closing to ensure proceeds and obligations are handled correctly at settlement.
Timelines & Closing
Timeline How fast can we close?
Move-out Can I stay after closing for a few days?
Often yes via a post-occupancy agreement that sets dates, utilities, and condition. It keeps everyone coordinated and reduces stress.
Title What if title finds a lien or judgment?
It’s common. Title will obtain payoff statements. Proceeds are used to satisfy valid liens at closing, or we’ll outline options if amounts exceed anticipated equity.
Legal & Compliance
Compliance Do you provide legal, tax, or financial advice?
No. We provide clear numbers and options, but we’re not a law firm or advisory service. We encourage independent counsel. Our transactions are coordinated with licensed title/escrow and, where appropriate, local attorneys.
Contracts What is a “novation” agreement?
It’s a contract update that allows us to improve and market the property, then share proceeds per agreement—often targeting a higher net to you than a pure as-is cash sale, with a longer timeline.
Wire Safety How do you handle wire fraud prevention?
All wire instructions are verified with the title company via confirmed channels. We never change wiring instructions by email. Always call your closer at the verified number on their official site if you receive a suspicious message.
Tenants, Probate & HOA
Tenants Can you buy with tenants in place?
Yes. We respect leases and local law. Depending on goals, we may keep tenants, coordinate “cash-for-keys,” or schedule closing to honor notice periods. Share the lease and any payment history early.
Probate What if the property is in probate?
We buy inherited properties routinely. The path depends on court status and authority (letters testamentary/administration). We’ll coordinate with your attorney and title to time closing appropriately.
Helpful read: Inherited Home Tax Implications (FL)
HOA What about HOA or condo approvals?
We comply with community rules—some associations require estoppels, dues clearances, or approvals. Title orders documents early to avoid delays.
Money & Taxes
Net Proceeds How do I estimate my net?
We provide a simple net sheet showing offer price, expected costs, lien payoffs, and your proceeds. You can compare it to a retail route (repairs + time + fees). Choose the path that fits your goals.
Taxes Will I owe taxes when I sell?
It depends on your situation—residency, use (primary vs. rental), basis, and gain. We’re not tax advisors. Speak with a professional for the final answer. Our net sheet helps that conversation go faster.
Payment How do I get paid at closing?
Title disburses funds via wire or check after all documents are executed and recorded as required. Bring a valid ID and any requested payoff information.
After Closing
Utilities What should I do with utilities and insurance?
Title provides the recording date. Coordinate turn-off/transfer dates for utilities and cancel homeowners insurance as advised by your carrier, typically after transfer is completed.
Mail How do I handle mail forwarding?
File a USPS change of address and update important accounts (bank, employer, subscriptions). We’ll forward reasonable mail if it arrives shortly after transfer.
About Local Home Buyers USA & Trust
Trust Why do sellers choose you?
Because we lead with transparency. We show comps and assumptions, lay out multiple paths (cash, novation, referral), and we’re comfortable saying “the other option is better for you” when it’s true.
Coverage Do you really buy in all 50 states?
Yes—directly or through vetted partners. The exact path varies by state law, title practices, HOA/COA rules, and local timelines. We’ll outline your state’s process upfront.
Contact How do I reach you?
Email: sales@localhomebuyersusa.com · Phone: 1-800-858-0588
Mailing: Local Home Buyers USA, 2136 Ford Parkway #9337, Saint Paul, MN
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