Frequently Asked Questions

Honest answers to the questions homeowners ask us most.

Selling your home to a real estate investor is different from a traditional sale — and it’s normal to have questions. Here’s what most homeowners want to know before they decide.

The Offer

How do you determine what you’ll pay for my home?

We look at recent comparable sales in your neighborhood, the current condition of the property, estimated repair costs, and current market conditions. Our goal is to make you a fair offer that works for both of us — one that reflects the home’s value while accounting for the work and risk we’re taking on.

Will your offer be lower than what I could get on the open market?

Often, yes — but the gap is smaller than most people expect when you account for agent commissions (typically 5–6%), closing costs, repair expenses, and the months a traditional listing can take. Many homeowners find the speed, certainty, and zero fees make a cash offer more valuable than a higher listing price.

Is your offer negotiable?

Yes. Our initial offer is based on available information, and we’re always open to discussing it. If you have a different number in mind or feel we’ve missed something about the property, bring it up — we’d rather have that conversation than lose a deal over a gap we can close.

Is there any obligation if I request an offer?

None whatsoever. Requesting or receiving a cash offer from us is completely free and commits you to nothing. You can walk away at any point before signing a purchase agreement.

The Process

How quickly can you close?

Because we buy with cash and don’t rely on a lender’s approval, we can close in as little as 10–21 days once a purchase agreement is signed. If you need more time — whether to find a new home, coordinate a move, or sort out personal matters — we can work around your schedule too.

What does the process look like from start to finish?

It’s three steps: (1) you tell us about your property via our form or a phone call; (2) we schedule a brief walkthrough — usually 20–30 minutes; (3) we make you a written cash offer. If you accept, we open escrow and close on a date you choose. No listings, no showings, no waiting for buyer financing.

Do I need to make repairs or clean the house before you buy?

No. We buy homes in any condition — outdated kitchens, aging roofs, deferred maintenance, even significant structural issues. You don’t need to patch a single wall or haul a single bag of trash. Leave whatever you don’t want behind and we’ll handle it.

Are there any fees, commissions, or closing costs I need to pay?

No. There are no agent commissions and we cover standard closing costs. The number we put in the offer is the amount you walk away with at closing.

My Situation

I still have a mortgage. Can you still buy my home?

Yes. Your existing mortgage is paid off at closing from the sale proceeds — just like any other real estate transaction. As long as the offer price covers your remaining loan balance, you’re clear to sell. If you’re underwater on the mortgage, we can discuss whether a short sale arrangement might work.

My home has tenants in it. Is that a problem?

Not at all. We buy occupied properties regularly. We’ll discuss the tenancy situation upfront — including any lease terms, notice requirements, and how the transition will be handled — so there are no surprises for you or your tenants.

Can you buy a home that’s in foreclosure or pre-foreclosure?

Yes, and time matters in these situations. If you’re facing foreclosure, reaching out early gives us the best chance to close before the process goes further. We’ve helped homeowners stop foreclosure by closing quickly — reach out as soon as possible so we can assess your timeline.

What if the home has liens, back taxes, or title issues?

We work with experienced title companies who handle complicated situations regularly. Liens and back taxes are typically resolved at closing from the sale proceeds. Title issues may take a little longer to clear but are often solvable — we’ll let you know early in the process if anything looks like it could be a problem.

What if I’m going through a divorce, probate, or an estate sale?

These are some of the most common situations we help homeowners navigate. We’re patient, we understand the process takes coordination, and we work with attorneys and courts as needed. A fast, certain sale often reduces stress and conflict in these circumstances.

After the Sale

What are you going to do with my home after you buy it?

It depends on the property. Some homes we renovate and resell (flip), others we hold as long-term rentals, and in some cases we wholesale the contract to another investor. We’re happy to be transparent about our plans — just ask. The intended use doesn’t affect the offer we make you.

What if I change my mind after signing a purchase agreement?

Purchase agreements are legally binding contracts, so backing out after signing does have potential consequences. That’s why we encourage you to take your time before signing and ask all your questions first. We never pressure anyone to sign on the spot.

Do I need a real estate attorney?

Oregon doesn’t require an attorney for residential real estate transactions, but you’re always welcome to have one review the purchase agreement before signing. We have nothing to hide in our contracts and fully support you getting independent advice if it gives you peace of mind.

Working With Us

How is selling to Verdant Homes different from listing with an agent?

With an agent, you prepare your home, list it, hold showings, wait for an offer, negotiate, wait for the buyer’s financing, and pay 5–6% in commissions. With us, there are no listings, no showings, no financing contingencies, and no commissions. You trade some potential upside for certainty, speed, and simplicity.

How do I know your offer is legitimate and you’ll actually close?

We buy with our own cash — we don’t need to raise money or wait on a lender. We’re happy to provide proof of funds and references from past sellers. We’ve built our reputation in the Portland market on closing what we commit to, and we intend to keep it that way.

Do you buy homes anywhere in Oregon, or only in Portland?

We’re based in Portland and primarily focused on the Portland metro area, including surrounding suburbs and communities. If you’re outside that area, reach out anyway — we may still be able to help or connect you with someone who can.

What if I’m not ready to sell yet but want to know my options?

That’s completely fine. We’re happy to have a no-pressure conversation about your situation, your timeline, and what a cash offer might look like for your home — with zero commitment on your end. Many homeowners talk to us months before they’re ready to move, just to understand their options.

Still Have Questions?

Call us directly or fill out our form — we’ll answer anything and make you a free, no-obligation cash offer.

Get My Free Cash Offer →