Are you thinking about selling your house? Perhaps you’re weighing the pros and cons of how to sell and wondering, “Should I hire a real estate agent to sell my home in Massachusetts or sell to an investor?”
If so, then this blog post is for you. It also applies to anyone looking to sell a house anywhere in Massachusetts or the surrounding area.
Selling a house is a big, complex decision, so you’re smart to be thinking through all the steps of the process. Let’s walk through the pros and cons of each option and then introduce a few more factors that most homeowners overlook.
Pros and Cons of Working With a Real Estate Agent
Pros
- Agents are trained professionals and have likely sold many homes.
- They can handle the negotiation process on your behalf.
- They will guide you through paperwork, inspections, and buyer management.
- You may receive a higher offer if your home is in excellent condition.
Cons
- You’ll need to make repairs and updates before listing.
- You must keep the home clean for multiple showings.
- The process can take several months or more.
- You’ll have to continue paying for taxes, utilities, insurance, and mortgage during the listing.
- You’ll pay a commission of 5–6% of the sale price.
- The buyer can back out, putting you back at square one.
Pros and Cons of Working With an Investor
Pros
- You’re working directly with the buyer—no middleman involved.
- You get an offer within 24 hours, typically.
- You don’t need to repair or clean the property.
- The deal can close in as little as 7–14 days.
- No agent commissions or closing costs.
- Ideal for properties in probate, foreclosure, or disrepair.
Cons
- You may receive an offer below market value, since investors factor in repair costs and holding risk.
Which Is Better for You?
It often comes down to just a few important questions:
- How quickly do you need to sell?
- Is your house in move-in ready condition?
- Can you afford to wait for a top-dollar buyer, or do you prefer a guaranteed and fast sale?
If time, convenience, and certainty matter most, many sellers find that working with an investor like Pegasus Home Buyers is the better fit.
Consider the Hidden Costs of Listing With an Agent
When homeowners list their property with an agent, the focus is usually on the final sale price. But what’s often overlooked are the hidden costs that eat away at your net profit—especially if the home takes months to sell.
Carrying Costs
These include:
- Mortgage payments
- Property taxes
- Homeowner’s insurance
- Utility bills (water, gas, electric, oil)
- Lawn care and general maintenance
Over the course of 3–6 months, these can add up to thousands of dollars.
Repairs and Updates
Agents typically recommend that sellers complete pre-listing repairs to attract the highest offer. These updates can range from fresh paint and new carpets to major roof or plumbing fixes. On average, pre-sale home improvements cost between $5,000–$15,000.
Buyer Concessions
After inspections, buyers often request concessions. This may include paying for repairs, covering closing costs, or offering a price reduction—again cutting into your net.
When you add it all up, you may find that the “higher price” isn’t as profitable as you thought.
The Emotional Factor – Stress, Uncertainty, and Time
Selling a home—especially one you’ve owned for many years—can be an emotional rollercoaster. Add the stress of keeping the property show-ready, responding to buyers, and dealing with inspection surprises, and it can become a full-time job.
Emotional Triggers
- Constant disruptions from showings
- Anxiety over low offers or long market times
- Stress from juggling repairs and contractors
- Fear of a deal falling through last minute
If you’re already facing a challenging life event—like a divorce, inheritance, relocation, or foreclosure—going through a traditional sale might be more than you can handle.
Working with an investor allows you to skip the stress, gain peace of mind, and move forward faster without the emotional ups and downs of a traditional listing.
What Types of Situations Are Best for Selling to an Investor?
While listing with an agent works for some homeowners, selling to an investor is often a smarter, faster, and easier choice in specific situations. Here’s when you should seriously consider it:
1. Inherited or Probate Properties
Managing a property after a loved one passes can be overwhelming, especially if the house needs repairs or there are multiple heirs involved. Investors like Pegasus Home Buyers are experienced in buying probate homes and can help make the process seamless.
2. Foreclosure or Behind on Payments
Time is critical in foreclosure situations. If your home is at risk of auction, an investor can step in with a fast cash offer, helping you avoid foreclosure and protect your credit.
3. Major Repairs or Outdated Condition
If your home has structural issues, code violations, or hasn’t been updated in decades, most traditional buyers won’t qualify for financing. But investors will buy as-is, no matter the condition.
4. Divorce or Life Transition
When two parties need to split assets quickly and fairly, listing a property for months may not be realistic. Investors can provide a fast and neutral solution.
5. Vacant or Rental Property
Tired of managing tenants or sitting on a vacant home? Investors will buy tenant-occupied or vacant homes, often with fewer headaches than dealing with traditional buyers.
Final Thoughts: Make the Choice That’s Right for You
So, should you hire a real estate agent to sell your home in Massachusetts or sell to an investor?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you’re looking for a fast, convenient, and hassle-free sale, Pegasus Home Buyers is here to help.
We’ll provide you with a fair, no-obligation cash offer, and you can decide what works best for your situation.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether you want to sell fast or just want more information about the process, we’re here to help. Click here to request your cash offer today. Let’s make your next move stress-free.