When does it make sense to skip the traditional home sale and go straight for a cash offer? From hoarder homes to inherited properties, distressed rentals, or homes facing foreclosure—this is a must-listen for anyone who has to sell, not just wants to. If your property isn’t market-ready, or time and peace of mind matter more than maximizing profit, this episode is for you.
In a recent episode of the Own More Doors Podcast, host Juan Huizar sat down with Matthew Miller, co-owner of Fair Trade Real Estate, to explore why some sellers are choosing fast, hassle-free cash offers instead of the MLS. If you or someone you know is facing a tough real estate decision, here are the key takeaways.
When Speed and Simplicity Matter
Some homeowners find themselves in situations that require speed and flexibility. Whether it’s a hoarder house, a property with fire damage, or a home stuck in probate, not every property is ready for the spotlight.
Matthew shared a story of a family friend who suddenly had to move an elderly parent into their home. The parent’s property was nearly uninhabitable and needed to be sold quickly, as-is. A cash offer allowed them to get funds quickly to care for their loved one without dealing with costly repairs or lengthy market exposure.
Situations like this are more common than many realize:
- Inherited properties with deferred maintenance
- Burned-out landlords with trashed rentals
- Homes that won’t qualify for financing
- Properties facing foreclosure or with tax liens
- Hoarder homes or homes with stigmas (e.g., death on property)
In these cases, a cash offer can mean peace of mind, quick closings, and no agent commissions.
How the Process Works
Sellers can visit our CASH OFFER page, plug in their address, and get a response within 24 to 48 hours from Fair Trade. The process is straightforward: after gathering basic information and understanding the seller’s situation, Fair Trade sets an appointment and provides a formal offer.
As Matt explained, the company has eight physical offices across California and is very hands-on. They deal with distressed properties on a regular basis, and their escrow partners are used to handling deals that involve back taxes, liens, or even pending foreclosure.
What Kind of Properties Qualify?
While Fair Trade mostly buys detached single-family homes, they also purchase condos, townhomes, and multi-unit properties. In 2023 alone, they acquired 49 properties with two or more units.
What do these homes have in common? They typically need work, won’t qualify for traditional financing, or the seller is facing a major life event. If you’re in a position where renovating isn’t practical or you need to move quickly, this route might be ideal.
Matt pointed out that even homes with financial complications—tax liens, unpaid HOA dues, or probate issues—can be handled, as long as there is enough equity in the property.
No Commissions, No Surprises
Unlike a traditional sale where sellers pay 5-6% in commissions plus additional closing costs, cash offers through Fair Trade eliminate many of those fees. The offer you get is the number you can expect to walk away with.
There are no listing fees, no buyer agent commissions, and Fair Trade often covers escrow and title costs. Even taxes or municipal fees can be negotiated depending on the deal.
When a Traditional Sale Still Makes Sense
Of course, not every property is a fit for a cash offer. If your home is in good shape, financeable, and not under time pressure, the MLS might still yield the highest return. As Juan and Matt discussed, sellers should weigh both options. Some clients get both a cash offer and a traditional listing proposal, then choose what works best.
Matt cautioned sellers against assuming that all investor offers are lowball scams. Investors need to make a profit, yes, but they’re also providing a service—speed, certainty, and convenience. For many, especially those who are not equipped to renovate or manage a drawn-out sale, the net result can be very similar.
The Emotional Side of Selling
Many of these homes come with emotional baggage: family deaths, illness, or financial stress. Renovating, listing, and negotiating with buyers can be overwhelming. And when multiple family members are involved, especially from out of state, coordinating a sale can become a source of tension.
As Matt put it, sometimes it’s not about squeezing out every dollar—it’s about solving a problem. Selling as-is with a quick close can bring closure, peace, and a clear path forward.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you know is sitting on a property that seems unsellable, don’t count it out. A cash offer might not just be a convenient option—it might be the best one.
To learn more or request an offer, visit out CASH OFFER page. Even if Fair Trade can’t buy your home, they may point you in the right direction.
