If you’ve ever driven through the downtown area of a major city, I’m sure you’ve seen those “We Buy Houses!” signs on every other corner. If you need to sell your home quickly, this can be a very enticing option. However, there are several things to be aware of before deciding to go this route.

First, research the company. Make sure they are registered, either at the county or state level, where you are selling your home. Make sure you are able to find a valid and correct address for the company. When dealing with such a company, be sure not to accept any personal checks or cash. Personal checks for large sums of money are an IRS red flag, as are large cash purchases. Additionally, personal checks used in business transactions are a huge fraud red flag!

Consult with an attorney and insist on the company providing a written offer, which you should have your attorney review. Accept the offer only if you and your attorney determine it to be reasonable. If you do accept the offer, insist on settling the deal in the office of a title attorney or title company and do so only after being provided payment either via wire transfer or a certified/bank check. Never sign over a title before receiving and verifying payment in good funds; once you’ve signed you have very little recourse to recover your property or funds if payment falls through.

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