How to Get a Cash Offer on Your Home: Step by Step

Getting a cash offer on your home is faster than most people expect — most legitimate buyers respond within 24 hours and present a written offer the same day or next day. Here's what the process looks like from your first call to a number on paper.

Step 1: Contact the Buyer

Call, text, or fill out a form with your property address and basic situation. You don't need to have answers to every question — a reputable buyer will gather the details they need. The initial contact takes 5–10 minutes.

Step 2: Property Review

The buyer reviews publicly available data — county appraisal records, recent sales of comparable homes, satellite imagery — and may schedule a brief walkthrough (typically 20–30 minutes). Some buyers make offers without a walkthrough based on photos and your description. Both are legitimate depending on the property.

Step 3: Receive the Written Offer

The buyer presents a written offer — either a formal purchase contract or a letter of intent — specifying the price, closing timeline, and any conditions. The offer should be unconditional (not subject to financing) and specify a title company for closing. No legitimate buyer charges a fee to make an offer.

Step 4: Review and Negotiate

You're not obligated to accept. Review the number against your own research: what do renovated comparable homes sell for in your area? What would estimated repairs cost? The difference between ARV × 70% and the offer should be explainable by repair costs and a reasonable margin. If it's not, ask the buyer to walk through their math.

Step 5: Execute the Contract

If you accept, you sign the purchase agreement. The buyer deposits earnest money with the title company, title work begins, and a closing date is set. From signed contract to closing: 7–21 days for most cash transactions.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Buyer asks for upfront fees before making an offer
• Offer requires you to take a second mortgage or stay as a renter
• No proof of funds when asked
• Pressure to sign before you've reviewed the contract
• Title company not named in the contract

Frequently Asked Questions

Related reading: are cash home buyers legit? · how cash buyers calculate their offers · how much cash buyers typically pay