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We Buy Any House UK: The ULTIMATE Guide [Updated Mar, 2024]

Home | Guides | We Buy Any House UK: The ULTIMATE Guide [Updated Mar, 2024]

By Lisa Hayes (Quick Sale Industry Expert)
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WE BUY ANY HOUSE COMPANIES & SERVICES – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE.

‘We Buy Any House’ and ‘We Buy Any Home’ are well-established property buying companies within the UK’s ‘quick sale’ market. However, it’s crucial to remember that ‘We buy any house’ is not just a brand; it’s a frequently searched phrase by homeowners who wish to sell their properties swiftly, often for cash.

A multitude of services operating under the umbrella of ‘we buy any home’ provide genuine, fair, and honest transactions in the UK. Still, it’s essential to remain vigilant as some platforms could potentially mislead homeowners or fail to offer the comprehensive service expected from an authentic cash buyer.

At Ready Steady Sell, our team offer homeowners free cash offers for their properties, thanks to our network of thoroughly vetted cash buyers spread across the UK. The ‘we buy any house’ sector has seen its share of scams in 2023, and regardless of whether you receive an offer from our approved partners, we strongly recommend reading our comprehensive guide and reviews before considering any ‘we buy any home’ service.

OUR GUIDE WILL ASSIST YOU IN:

  1. Understanding the reason you need to stay safe and avoid potential scams and pitfalls in the ‘we buy any house’ industry.
  2. Avoiding interactions with companies falsely claiming to be cash buyers without possessing necessary funds to get to completion.
  3. Identifying the essential step by steps of a ‘we buy any house’ service that ensures the best price and quickest sale.

 

WHO IS THIS GUIDE FOR?

Our guide is specifically designed for homeowners already looking at the reasons for using a ‘we buy any home’ service and the issues it may bring. It will aid you in making informed decisions, protecting your interests, and achieving a smooth, fair transaction.

 

IS IT SECURE TO USE A ‘WE BUY ANY HOME’ COMPANY?

Demystifying ‘We Buy Any House’ Services The term “we buy any house” is commonly associated with companies in the property market, resulting in a mixture of opinions about their trustworthiness. Here, we’ll unpack the realities and dispel the myths surrounding these organisations and their commitment to purchase virtually any property.

So, who are these companies and what do they do in essence?

  1. The majority of these firms are based in the UK and Scotland, often labelled as “quick sale companies” claiming the capability to purchase any house on the market in any location.
  2. These companies emerged in the early 2000s, providing a solution for individuals struggling with property sales or those with scarce cash resources.
  3. They are frequently utilised by people facing urgent situations, such as staving off house repossession, clearing debts, or needing to sell quickly following a divorce.
  4. These companies often pledge free property valuations with nearly immediate offers, asserting that they can complete the property purchase within a mere week. As most of these companies deal in cash, exercising additional vigilance is crucial.
  5. The challenge lies in determining which entities are trustworthy. Our aim here is to enlighten homeowners about what they need to consider when dealing with ‘we buy any house’ companies.

Do They Truly Buy ‘Any’ House Regardless of Its State?

While these companies pledge to buy any house, the real question is – do they fulfil their promise in practice? Here’s what you should know:

  1. Some of these companies genuinely buy houses, irrespective of their condition.
  2. As long as they maintain sufficient cash flow, these firms won’t dismiss properties that are in a less-than-optimal state.
  3. However, be vigilant about whether these organisations are legitimate cash buying companies or not. If they’re not, they might simply be estate agents intending to lock you into an estate agency contract – something you’ll want to avoid.
  4. The key phrase to keep an eye out for is ‘we buy any house – FOR CASH.’
  5. Legitimate companies will completely disregard the state of your property and make a cash offer. However, brace for the possibility that the offer might not be as substantial as you’d hoped for as the price will reflect the condition of the property.
  6. If you’re uncertain about the fairness of your valuation, never hesitate to seek a second opinion.

In conclusion, as long as the company is reputable and a real cash house buyer, they will buy your house for cash, regardless of its condition.

How Swiftly Could I Theoretically Sell My House?

A bona fide cash buying firm should complete the purchase of your house within a maximum span of 7 to 14 days. Any company wishing to prolong the process beyond this period is likely not procuring your property for cash.

we buy any home reviews

 

If I’m Selling THROUGH a Quick Sale Firm, Who Is the Actual Purchaser of the Property?

It’s a valid enquiry: who indeed is buying the property if you’re going through a quick sale firm?

  1. Provided that the company is authentic, it will be the company itself purchasing your property.
  2. However, bear in mind that not all these organisations are reliable, with some individuals reporting being victims of scams.
  3. It’s critical to ascertain that if they’re offering cash for your property, they actually have the funds to purchase it seamlessly.
  4. Our recommendation is to remain vigilant and conduct thorough research for such substantial transactions.

It’s imperative to investigate the company you’re engaging thoroughly and examine their credentials in depth before signing any documents. This is the only way to assure that a reputable organisation is buying your house.

What Price Would I Receive From a Service Like This?

Most quick sale firms tend to offer around 25 percent below market value as a general rule. However, for the most current information, you can read our guide on how much ‘we buy any house’ companies typically pay and how flexible they can be.

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Should I Utilise a ‘We Buy Any House’ Service to Sell My Property?

The decision to use a ‘we buy any house’ service is highly dependent on your personal circumstances. Consider the following questions to evaluate whether a house buying scheme is the right fit for you:

  1. Are you in urgent need to sell your house fast due to impending repossession or financial hardships?
  2. Are you comfortable with accepting an offer around 85% of the market value?
  3. Are you financially prepared for a reduced price sale? Do you have ample equity?
  4. Have you tried and failed to sell on the open market?
  5. Do you require a quick sale to proceed with another purchase?

If your answers to the above questions lean towards ‘yes’, a ‘we buy any home’ service could be a viable avenue for selling your property.

Are There Any Online Reviews That Can Aid My Research?

A great way to gauge a company’s reliability and legitimacy is through reviews. Reviews offer a wealth of insights without requiring you to seek out customers and ask directly. But, can all the reviews you read be trusted?

  1. Thankfully, several independent review companies evaluate property companies online. These reviews are likely to be unbiased and pragmatic, unlike those featured on a company’s own website. After all, which company would willingly post a negative review about itself? Not likely!
  2. To access these reviews, utilise your preferred search engine. This can be achieved by searching the specific property company’s name followed by the word “reviews”. However, exercise caution when selecting which links to trust.
  3. If the company has a Facebook page, you’ll also find customer reviews available there. But as we’ve mentioned, always ensure these are genuine reviews. Unfortunately, it’s entirely possible for companies to fabricate reviews or solicit favourable ones from friends and family to boost their ratings.

As always – remain vigilant, be thorough, and verify your sources. By adhering to these rules, you’ll be on the right track.

From Where Do They Source the Money to Guarantee Such a Rapid Purchase?

A legitimate question to pose: if they are capable of splashing out hundreds of thousands of pounds swiftly and readily, what is the source of this cash?

  1. Studies suggest that a mere 10% of these companies are actually legitimate, reinforcing our advice to exercise extreme caution when choosing a firm to transact with.
  2. In fact, if you were to compare the number of estate agencies to bona fide ‘we buy any house’ companies, the disparity would be striking.
  3. No one disputes that it’s the quickest way to sell a house – provided it’s legitimate.

The crux of the matter is, it can be challenging to find an authentic ‘we buy any house’ company that possesses the ready funds and isn’t fraudulent. The issue, however, is that many of these companies are merely estate agents under the guise of quick sale firms – resulting in a likely sale period of up to six months, which could prove disastrous if you require a rapid sale.

What Are the Principal Differences Between ‘We Buy Any House’ Firms and Estate Agencies?

As we conclude, it seems logical to delineate the key differences between estate agencies and ‘we buy any house’ firms – because, without this knowledge, how can you discern which is suitable for your personal situation?

  1. Price undeniably tops the list. It’s indisputable that an authentic quick sale company is considerably more affordable than going through a traditional estate agency. The advantage of these legitimate firms is that, unlike estate agents, they don’t levy any additional fees. Moreover, most will evaluate your property free of charge, and you’re likely to bypass any legal fees as well – making them a cost-effective mode of sale.
  2. The timeframe required to sell a property also varies significantly between the two entities. Generally, an estate agent will take an average of between four to six months to finalise your property sale. In contrast, ‘we buy any house’ firms are significantly quicker, potentially completing the sale within seven to fourteen days. Sales are also more likely to collapse with estate agencies, as there’s no guarantee – until all contracts are signed – that the buyer won’t withdraw. The property chain can be a difficult space to navigate, whereas a genuine quick sale firm can expedite a hassle-free property sale.
  3. Lastly, truth be told, opting for a quick sale firm simplifies the process. The entire journey is much more straightforward, as they’re likely to provide a property valuation upfront and free of charge. Consider the scenario with an estate agent: you’ll have to navigate the hurdles of effective marketing, attracting potential buyers, and conducting property viewings. In contrast, these firms pledge to purchase the property, irrespective of its condition, within a brief timeframe – but this only applies IF they’re a genuine firm, a point we cannot overemphasise.

The essence of it all is, as long as you opt for a firm with a solid reputation and a history of delivering on their promises, then it provides a quicker and easier means to sell. As highlighted previously, it’s crucial that you conduct thorough research and verify your sources before committing to sell through one of these organisations. Otherwise, you might end up incurring financial losses and stretching the process, making it more stressful than necessary. Remember, it’s only quicker, cheaper and easier if they’re authentic cash buyers. The rest are potential fraudsters.

 

A QUICK SUMMARY OF HOW OUR SERVICE DIFFERS

Submit Your Details Online

By using our home seller tool, you’ll receive a complimentary indicative valuation and get matched with a verified cash buyer in your local area, who already has the funds available for immediate action.

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A Verified Buyer Will Reach Out to You

Once you’ve accepted a cash offer, our endorsed partner will undertake a property valuation free of charge, at their expense.

Complete Payment in Your Account

Our cash buying associates have the capability to purchase any house in England, Scotland or Wales with genuine cash, within a 7-day timeframe.

Although our cash buying firm is situated in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, we have the flexibility to acquire any house, regardless of its condition. Furthermore, the nature of the property you are selling is of no consequence to us – whether it’s a mid-terrace property in Manchester, or a city flat in London. From flats and houses to apartments, cottages, and bungalows, we are open to all kinds of property.

Under certain conditions, we might also consider purchasing land or commercial premises.

To initiate the process, all you need to do is complete the form provided for a non-obligatory, free valuation.

In addition to our cash buying service, we can expedite your house sale with other alternatives such as our assisted sale model, quick sale estate agency or national auction sale.

 

we buy any house companies reviews

 

Comparing Selling Routes: ‘WeBuyAnyHome’ Companies vs. Estate Agents vs. Auctions

Selling a house is a significant decision and knowing the best route can be challenging. There are numerous options available, including ‘we buy any house’ companies, estate agents, and auctions. Let’s compare these three selling routes, considering their pros and cons:

We Buy Any House Companies

These companies provide a quick and hassle-free way to sell your property. They offer to buy your house for cash, making the process much faster than traditional methods.

Pros:

  • Speed: They can complete the sale in as little as 7-14 days.
  • Convenience: They handle everything, including the paperwork, reducing the stress of selling.
  • Security: The sale is less likely to fall through as they use their funds, not dependent on mortgage approval.
  • No Fees: Most do not charge any fees for valuation or legal processes.

Cons:

  • Price: They typically offer around 75-85% of the market value of your property. It’s a trade-off for the speed and convenience they offer.
  • Research Required: As there are numerous companies, you need to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable and genuine cash buying firm.

Estate Agents

Estate agents are the traditional route for selling properties. They can help you market your property, find potential buyers, and handle the negotiation process.

Pros:

  • Market Value: They aim to get you the highest price possible, often closer to the market value of your property.
  • Expertise: They have local market knowledge and can provide advice on pricing and negotiation.

Cons:

  • Slow Process: It can take several months to complete a sale.
  • Risk of Sale Falling Through: Buyers may pull out if they fail to secure a mortgage or find another property they prefer.
  • Fees: Estate agents charge a commission, which is a percentage of the final selling price.
  • Inconvenience: You’ll need to accommodate viewings and there may be a significant amount of paperwork involved.

Auctions

Auctions can be a quick way to sell your property, and there’s potential for a bidding war if your property is in high demand.

Pros:

  • Speed: Once the hammer falls, the buyer is legally obliged to buy the property.
  • Potential Higher Sale Price: If multiple buyers are interested, they can bid the price up.

Cons:

  • Unpredictable: You have less control over the final selling price.
  • Limited Appeal: Not all buyers are comfortable buying at auction, so the pool of potential buyers may be smaller.
  • Fees: You’ll have to pay a listing fee, even if your property doesn’t sell, plus a commission on the sale price.

Here is a comparison table to make it easier:

We Buy Any House Companies Estate Agents Auctions
Speed High (7-14 days) Low (months) High
Convenience High Moderate Low
Security of Sale High Low High
Potential Selling Price 75-85% of market value Close to market value Unpredictable
Fees Mostly none Commission based Listing fee and commission
Required Research High Moderate Low

In conclusion, while estate agents and auctions have their merits for closing sales, ‘we buy any house’ companies provide a fast, convenient, and reliable service, especially for those in need of a quick sale. Their hassle-free process and guaranteed transaction make them a very attractive option.

 

we buy houses scams

Companies that claim ‘we buy any house‘ have received serious backlash from industry players over the years prompting most of the companies to work on overhauling the quality of service with the view of turning their reputation around.

Overall, it is important that you be well informed about these companies before committing to work with them towards the sale of your property. Here are some important things you need to know about we buy any home type companies:

  • They should be transparent in their dealings
    To instil confidence in their clients, quick house sale companies must be open about their sales process. While it is not a secret that these companies will purchase your property at a lesser value than the actual market value, these companies must openly explain their processes upfront as well as what they offer for the discount. As such, most companies will ensure that their clients are well informed for a hassle free sale.
  • These companies are unregulated
    Bodies like the National Association of Property Buyers give guideline regulations, however the sale of property for cash remains unregulated. Make sure to research into any company you are dealing with and ensure they are members of the Property Ombudsman Service. This ensures there is no room malpractice through the issuance of serious penalties. Consequently, these companies must abide by the rules of their practice.
  • The market is saturated
    Before entering into an agreement with a company, it is important to understand that this market is relatively saturated making it competitive. Moreover, these companies are improving their services and offers constantly in order to stay afloat. In fact, it is not uncommon to find market leaders offering cost free services as they have the customer in mind. Ultimately, you must be able to distinguish between a company that is reputable and one this not.
  • The quick house sale market is growing
    The land registry records show a significant increase in the number of transactions by ‘we buy any house’ companies. In fact, purchases by quick house sale companies have significantly shot up and even dominated online search queries. This goes to show that the confidence levels among property sellers have increased. Overall, the quick house sale companies are undergoing a transition that is aimed at improving the quality of service they are offering. Ready Steady Sell are at the forefront of this transition and we want to offer you a service that is industry leading. We buy any house, but we also offer a transparent and solid method of doing so.
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Further Information

Before you proceed with a quick house sale we recommend you check out the following links and get some independent advice on the whole process:

how we buy any home companies operate

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WEBUYANYHOUSE FIRMS

Frequently Asked Questions Answers
1. What is a ‘We Buy Any House’ company? These are property buying companies that offer to purchase your property directly, providing a quicker route to sell than traditional methods.
2. How fast can these companies buy my property? Genuine cash buying firms should be able to complete the purchase in as little as 7-14 days.
3. Will they really buy any house, regardless of condition? Yes, genuine companies will buy properties in any condition. However, the condition will be factored into the price they offer.
4. How do ‘We Buy Any House’ companies determine their offer? They typically base their offer on the property’s current market value, its condition, and local market conditions. Most companies usually offer around 80-85% of the market value.
5. Are ‘We Buy Any House’ companies scams? While there are reputable companies in this industry, it’s crucial to do thorough research as some might be less ethical. Look for companies that are transparent about their process and offer fair prices.
6. What are the fees involved? Most genuine ‘We Buy Any House’ firms don’t charge any fees, and they often cover legal costs. However, this varies, so be sure to ask about fees upfront.
7. Do I need to conduct viewings for a ‘We Buy Any House’ company? No, these companies will conduct their own valuation and inspection process.
8. What if I have a mortgage on the property? The company will typically pay off the mortgage as part of the sale process and then pay any remaining balance to you.
9. Can I use a ‘We Buy Any House’ company if I’m facing repossession? Yes, many people use these services as a quick solution to stop repossession because of the speedy process.
10. Are ‘We Buy Any House’ services regulated? Some are part of professional bodies like The Property Ombudsman (TPO) or the National Association of Property Buyers (NAPB), which provide certain protections and standards.
11. Will I have to move out immediately? This depends on the company and your agreement, but generally, you’ll have to move out shortly after the sale completes.
12. What types of property do these companies buy? They typically buy all types of residential properties, including flats, houses, bungalows, and sometimes even commercial properties or land.
13. Do I need a solicitor? Most ‘We Buy Any House’ companies have their own solicitors, but you may want to hire your own for independent advice.
14. Can I sell a property that’s in poor condition or needs major repairs? Yes, these companies will buy properties in any condition.
15. What’s the benefit of using a ‘We Buy Any House’ company instead of an estate agent? The main benefits are speed and certainty. You can sell your house much quicker and there’s less risk of the sale falling through.
16. Can I change my mind after agreeing to sell? This depends on the terms of your agreement with the company. Be sure to understand these terms before signing anything.
17. Can I sell a tenanted property to a ‘We Buy Any House’ company? Yes, some companies will buy properties with sitting tenants.
18. Can I sell my house to pay off debts? Yes, you can use the funds from the sale to pay off debts. In fact, many people use these companies to quickly resolve financial difficulties.
19. Can they help me find a new home? Some companies might offer assistance with finding a new home, but this isn’t typical. Their primary service is to buy homes quickly.
20. How do I know if I can trust a ‘We Buy Any House’ company? Do your research. Check online reviews, their standing with professional bodies like TPO or NAPB, and ask them questions about their process. It’s crucial to feel comfortable with the company you choose.
Lisa Hayes

Lisa Hayes

I am the co-owner of Ready Steady Sell. We built this website to arm homeowners with the knowledge and understanding they need to navigate the quick sale industry.

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Disclaimer: We do not provide any financial advice. Ready Steady Sell works with regulated property brokers whom have the ability to purchase your property for cash. Our service is free and you are under no obligation to accept the quotes you receive from our partner companies. You may be contacted by regulated firms that can help you sell your house quickly.