If you’re considering selling your home, you may be weighing the options: selling directly to a real estate investor or listing your property on the MLS. While investors promise quick sales, listing on the MLS offers distinct advantages that can put more money in your pocket with less hassle.
MLS sale trumps investor offers
- Zillow Research Confirms: MLS Listings Sell for More
According to a recent Zillow study, homes listed on the MLS sell for 5.7% more on average than those sold off-market, including direct investor deals. In some markets, the difference is even greater—up to 13.2% more! This means that skipping the MLS and selling directly to an investor could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. - Competitive Offers vs. Single Lowball Offer
When you sell directly to an investor, you’re usually dealing with one or two offers—often well below market value. By listing on the MLS, multiple investors (as well as traditional buyers) can compete for your home, driving the price higher and maximizing your profit. - Beware of Unlicensed “Wholesalers” Profiting Off Your Home
Many real estate investors act as unlicensed brokers, making money by “wholesaling” your property to another investor at a huge markup—sometimes 10% or more of your home’s value. That’s profit that could have gone straight to you! Instead of letting investors take advantage, listing your home on the MLS ensures transparency and fair competition for the highest possible price. - Sell Your Home As-Is—Just Like Investors Promise
A common misconception is that you must fix up a home to list it on the MLS. That’s not true! You can sell your home “as-is” just like you would to an investor—without repairs or renovations—while still benefiting from the competitive market. - Lower Commission, More Profit
With recent changes in real estate commission structures, sellers now only pay the listing agent—sometimes as low as 1% commission. Compare that to selling to an investor, where hidden wholesaling profits can take a huge cut out of your home’s value. Listing on the MLS ensures that more of your home’s equity stays with you. - Homes Are Selling Quickly in Today’s Market
One of the biggest reasons sellers consider investor offers is speed. However, in the current real estate environment, homes continue to sell quickly on the MLS. You can close fast while ensuring you get the best possible price.
The Bottom Line
Selling directly to an investor might seem convenient, but it often means leaving thousands—if not tens of thousands—of dollars on the table. Zillow research proves that the MLS gets sellers more money. The MLS gives you the best of both worlds—a fast sale at a higher price with lower commission. Don’t settle for the first offer—let the market work for you!
By Dan Krell
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Disclaimer. This article is not intended to provide nor should it be relied upon for legal and financial advice. Readers should not rely solely on the information contained herein, as it does not purport to be comprehensive or render specific advice. Readers should consult with an attorney regarding local real estate laws and customs as they vary by state and jurisdiction. Using this article without permission is a violation of copyright laws.