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Inherited a Home? What to Know Before Selling to a Wholesaler or Cash Buyer

 

Inheriting a home can feel overwhelming. On top of the emotional weight, you may find yourself approached by wholesalers or cash buyers offering to “take the house off your hands” quickly. While these offers can sound appealing - especially when you’re dealing with probate, distant family members, or a property in rough shape - it’s important to understand how these buyers operate and whether their offer is truly your best option.  The following provides some thoughts on what you and your family should know before making a decision.

 

 

How Wholesalers and Cash Buyers Work

 

Wholesalers and cash buyers often target inherited homes because they assume sellers may want a fast, simple solution. But their business model means their offer is likely below the home’s true market value.

 

 

Wholesalers
 

What they do:
 

• A wholesaler doesn’t typically plan to buy your home themselves. Instead, they put it under contract at a discounted price and then assign that contract to another buyer - often an investor - at a higher price.

 

• How they profit:  The difference between what they offered you and what they sold the contract for goes in their pocket. Why they appeal to sellers:  They promise speed (often closing in 7–14 days) and simplicity (“as-is” sales with no repairs or showings).

 

 

Cash Buyers

 

What they do:
 

• These are often investors who purchase homes directly to flip, rent, or hold.
   

• Why their offers are lower: They factor in repair costs, holding costs, and their target profit margin.
   

When Selling to a Wholesaler or Cash Buyer May Be the Right Choice

 

There are situations where a quick sale makes sense:

 

• The property needs extensive repairs or cleanup.

 

• The estate must settle debts quickly.

 

• Family members live far away and managing a sale isn’t feasible.

 

• The emotional toll of preparing and selling the home is too much.

 

In these cases, the convenience might outweigh leaving money on the table.

 

 

When Exploring Other Options Could Be Better

 

For many families, taking a little extra time can result in a much larger financial return. A trusted real estate agent can help you evaluate options like:

 

• Selling “As-Is” on the Open Market
   

  • Listing without major updates may still attract investors and buyers willing to take on a fixer-upper.

  • You’ll often get a higher price than a wholesaler’s offer.
     

• Making Minimal Repairs for Maximum Impact
   

  • Cleaning, paint, and curb appeal improvements can increase buyer interest significantly.
    
     

• Preparing for a Top-Dollar Sale
   

  • Investing more time and resources can maximize the home’s value and attract traditional buyers.

 

 

 

Protect Yourself:  Consult an Agent or Attorney
 

 

Before signing any agreement:
 

• Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from a real estate professional to understand your home’s true value.
   

• Ask for a Net Seller Sheet showing your estimated proceeds for various sale scenarios (as-is, minimal updates, full prep).
   

• If you’re not represented by a licensed real estate agent, have a real estate attorney review any paperwork from buyers. This step can protect you from unfavorable terms or clauses.
   

 

 

Get Guidance Tailored to Your Family’s Needs

Your inherited property may be one of the most valuable assets in your family’s estate. Before rushing into a decision, take time to explore all options and make sure you’re getting the outcome that’s best for everyone.

 

At Probate Property Help, we’re here to guide you through these decisions with compassion and expertise. Whether you want to sell fast, rent out the home, or explore ways to increase its value, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons—no pressure.

 

Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make sure you and your family keep more of what’s yours.

 

Thanks for reading!

 

Cheers!

-Joe