If you’ve looked into selling your house fast for cash, you’ve probably seen the signs—literally. “We Buy Houses!” posters stapled to telephone poles, generic websites with no real info, or out-of-town companies making lowball offers without even seeing your house.
The truth is, while there are many reputable cash home buyers out there, there are also a lot of pretenders.
Here’s how to tell the difference between a legit, local cash buyer (like us at NOLA Buys Houses) and someone who might waste your time or worse.
1. “We’ll Buy Your House” — But Will They Really?
Legit cash buyers actually have the funds and the intent to close. Fake ones often act as middlemen or wholesalers trying to lock up your property so they can assign the contract to someone else.
Red flags:
- They can’t answer basic questions about their buying process.
- They don’t view the property in person. This is a MAJOR red flag. How can you assess condition and therefore value without seeing the property?
- Their offer is contingent on finding a buyer or “partner approval,” or something goofy like that. In other words, they are not the decision makers.
- They aren’t local. How can someone who doesn’t live here or do business here make you a real offer. Would you buy a house in Memphis Tennessee without ever seeing it???
What to ask:
- “Do you buy houses directly, or will you be assigning this contract?”
- “Have you bought other houses in this area, or any area in New Orleans, in the last 6 months?” If so, what are the addresses?
- More than a question, make them provide you with proof of funds to show they have the ability to buy the property. This is the best way to sort out the real deal house buyers from the fakers. If they don’t have the money, they definitely can’t buy your house. Plain and simple.
2. Look for Local Knowledge and Presence
A real buyer knows the neighborhoods, the market, and the city.
Red flags:
- No local address or phone number. They don’t live here or work here but they wanna buy houses here?
- Website uses stock photos and vague language.
- They can’t tell you anything about the street you live on. C’mon now!
Check:
- Google reviews and BBB profile.
- Are they based in New Orleans? Do they actually live or work here?
- What houses have they bought in the last 6 months?
3. They Should Never Pressure You
A legit home buyer gives you a fair offer and lets you decide. No hard sales. No threats. No guilt.
Red flags:
- “This offer is only good for today.”
- “If you don’t sign now, we can’t guarantee we’ll be interested tomorrow.”
- High pressure sales tactics are not good business practices.
What to expect instead:
- Clear communication, fair terms, and time to think it over.
- You should be able to make decision on your time when you are ready.
4. Transparent Offers, Clear Paperwork
Real buyers walk you through the entire process and paperwork. No tricks. No hidden fees.
Red flags:
- They won’t explain the contract.
- They promise big numbers upfront, then change the offer later. This is a very common way the out of state and national people bait you in to dealing with them.
What to ask:
- “What happens between accepting the offer and closing?”
- “Are there any fees or commissions?”
5. Proven Track Record
Check how long they’ve been in business. Look at reviews. Ask how many homes they’ve bought. A good buyer is proud of their track record.
NOLA Buys Houses has been buying homes in the New Orleans area since 2001. We’ve purchased over 1,200 homes and have an A+ rating with the BBB. We live here. We work here. We care about the people we help. We have tons of 5 star Google reviews and a very strong social media and online presence.
Final Thought
Selling your house is a big decision—especially if you’re in a tough spot. Don’t let a wholesaler or out-of-state buyer take advantage of that.
Do your homework. Ask the right questions. And when you’re ready, talk to a buyer who’s proven, local, and here to help.
Need a trustworthy cash offer in New Orleans?
Contact NOLA Buys Houses today or call (504) 264-1407. We’ll treat you with respect, and we’ll mak