You hear about scams all the time on the news. Whether they are questionable offers sent in the mail, “free money” in emails, or appeals for money over the phone, it can feel like you need to question everything these days.
When selling your house in Virginia Beach, choosing who will purchase your home is difficult. This is a sale of huge value, and you don’t want to be scammed. How do you know which cash buyers to trust?
While it may seem like they are all scams, there are many cash buyers who are legitimate and reputable. Knowing what to look for is key, so here are some easy ways to identify trustworthy buyers:
They Have a Positive Review History
If you want to sell to a company that buys houses in Virginia Beach and has given you an all-cash offer, check them out with a quick internet search. The Better Business Bureau is a great place to start. You can also look at the reviews on their websites, Google Reviews, and client testimonials.
These will give you a feel for what the company is really like. A company with nothing to hide and many previous happy home sellers will proudly display their testimonials and have a long history of reviews on various sites.
Pay attention to any negative reviews as well. If the company has a large customer base, it is bound to get a negative review occasionally. However, if the reviews mention that the company leaves things out, keeps important information secret, or waits until the last minute to pull the rug out from under sellers, the company may not be as reputable as it first appears.
With as much content as there is online, a reputable company will have the information you need to find with a quick search. This information, especially from former buyers, can help you better understand the experience you may have while working with that company.
They Have A Lot of Experience
Working with cash home buyers in Virginia Beach with a great deal of experience is a great way to help ensure a positive selling experience. Some buyers and companies have been around for decades and have experts who can walk you through the selling experience step-by-step, helping you rest easy in your choice.
Trusting a company with plenty of experience can help ensure a smoother process. So, if you aren’t sure what your potential buyer’s experience is–ask them. Chances are they proudly display their numbers on their website, and if not, a reputable company will happily share their stats with you.
If they are avoiding the question, giving vague answers, or you don’t feel they are telling the truth, they may not be the right buyer for you (or anyone else in the area).
They Won’t Charge Fees Upfront
If you’re looking for reputable cash buyers in Virginia Beach, they won’t charge you unwarranted fees. A genuine company will have everything built into the real estate transaction. If the buyer is trying to charge minor application fees, processing fees, or anything else like this, it’s a scam to collect the payments without any plan to follow through with a purchase.
They Have the Proper License
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, all cash home buyers must hold a valid and proper license issued by the Virginia Real Estate Board to carry out offers legally. Before you take up any potential cash buyer on their offer, ask to see their license. If they fail to provide you with one, say that they are in the process of getting one, or make up an excuse as to why they can’t show it to you, that is a pretty good indication that they are not a reputable, or even legal, cash home buyer.
They Communicate Openly
A potential home buyer who is reputable and trustworthy will usually be very open with their communication. They can offer a transparent offer and work with you as you negotiate. If you find that they are quick to answer emails, phone calls, or make appointments with you, it may show that they are ready to make an honest offer.
Choosing a Deal with Confidence
When looking at all the companies that advertise, “We buy houses in Virginia Beach,” don’t just hope for the best. Look for one that consistently meets the criteria above. By researching and verifying their experience, licenses, and customer feedback, you can protect yourself and ensure you work with a legitimate company. Don’t settle for less than full transparency and professionalism. With the right approach, you can confidently sell your house, knowing you’re in safe hands and avoiding even the suspicion of a scam.