Are you struggling to keep your home in today's market?

"We Buy Houses" is not a company. It's a slogan used by real estate investors. Any investor can put out a "We Buy Houses" sign. We know that the signs and slogan have been around for a very long time now, which must mean they're doing something right. However, I can only make a generalization since each investor is independent. In essence, you don't really know who you're working with, so start by asking the right questions when you call.

Be sure to find out if they have cash offer option, how quickly they can close, and get a pre-approval letter or proof of funds verification letter. You should also ask if an attorney or agent is handling all contracts and if they are local or have a local representative. If they meet these qualifications and can perform with a fair offer, you possible have yourself a deal.

Take a look at this scenario.

I heard this story from a retired man who recently called the number on a "We Buy Houses" sign. He was hours away from going into foreclosure and losing all equity in his house. Within 24hrs. the investor viewed his property, made him an offer, and it was accepted. The investor immediately made all back payments on the property stopping foreclosure, and loaned the man money to cover his moving expenses. He walked away from his problem with cash in hand, and the investor now has a property that he can remodel, doing what he loves to do.

It tends to be a win-win situation like the story I just shared. In tough economic times, you will see these types of transactions happen more frequently. Sure, you may not always get top dollar for your house. Remember, these investors need to make a profit and/or justify the risk they take by purchasing your home in a depreciating market. At least your home closes quickly with no open houses, and you do not have to compete with other sellers who are looking for the small percentage of qualified buyers right now.

Honestly, I'm not sure why more people don't take the "We Buy Houses" approach. Additionally, you may save about 7% by not having to pay a real estate agent a commission. Many homeowners these days simply don't have the money to repair or fix up their homes before selling as they did in the past. I know because I used to sell real estate and the first thing I would point out to customers were all the repairs and how to make this house really look outstanding. Selling a 'fixer' home 'as is' in a tough market can be huge relief of stress for a homeowner.

When an investor typically approaches a homeowner who is considering selling a house, there will be certain things that are in their presentation.

* They will likely ask you how much you owe on the house in mortgages and other liens;

* Typically there are no contingencies for any type of inspections;
* You won't need to do any repairs;
* They will probably walk around and through the house performing a good evaluation of its condition;
* Although, they will buy the house as is, you will still need to point out the things that need repairing on your house;
* They will make you an offer and have the paperwork ready to go.

So far this sounds like a very good deal. It is a pain free way to sell your house. When you go to the settlement table, you will get cash, even if the buyer is getting a loan to purchase the house. The only way that you will not receive cash is if you finance the house yourself. Sometimes if you finance the sale, you will get more for your property, so stay open to that option if it's possible!

A quick settlement may be taking 10-15 days. If they actually provide a contract that is for a 15-day settlement, then you should make certain that you could settle quickly. It is more likely that they will actually provide a settlement of closer to 30 days.

Realtors probably think that most of the ‘We buy Houses' investors are not likely to present opportunities to work together and make commissions. The good news is that many investors will pay out commissions and send you a continuous stream of business. I would think every Realtor should work hand in hand with a serious investor. And the good news for the seller is that the commissions are not paid out of your pocket. The investor pays it.

It seems to me that these investors are doing a great job for people in these hard times, struggling to sell their homes, not knowing where to turn, and frustrated homeowners often give up and abandon their homes.

Many years ago I lost my condo, I did not know that I had options, or who to trust. I had to just walk away.

Today would be different. I would definitely call a local "We Buy Houses" investor. It's an expedient and beneficial way to sell your home and avoid the problems that may be facing you.

Aaron Bigelow, Real Estate Investor helping people in the going mortgage crisis. Want to find the best buys before they hit the market? Just checkout -> this site to get started and also look here for all the sites with other important and valuable information.