Cash Buyer vs Realtor in Alberta: How to Decide

We buy houses directly, so you'd expect us to argue that's always better. It isn't. Roughly speaking: if your home is in good shape and you can wait, a listing usually nets more. If condition, timing or circumstances get in the way, a direct sale usually wins on what actually lands in your pocket.

Side by side

When we'd tell you to list

• The home is updated, clean and easy to show
• You have three or more months and no financial pressure
• You're in a tight market segment with competing buyers
• You're comfortable managing showings and conditions

When a direct sale usually makes more sense

• The property needs work you can't or don't want to fund
• It's tenanted, vacant, damaged or full of contents
• You're dealing with foreclosure, separation, probate or a transfer
• A previous listing expired without a workable offer
• Certainty on the date matters more than the last few percent of price

The test to apply

Ask both routes for a net number and a date. Realtors can give you a comparative market analysis and an estimate of costs; a direct buyer can give you a figure and a closing date. Put both on paper and decide with numbers rather than instinct.

This article is general information for Alberta property owners, not legal, tax or financial advice. Always get independent advice from your own lawyer or accountant before selling.