How to sell your house fast: every option compared (2026)
Last updated · By Homeowner's Ally
The short answer
The fastest way to sell depends on your home's condition and how much price you're willing to trade for speed. Pricing to sell with an agent usually gets the highest price; iBuyers, investors and builders can be faster and simpler but typically pay less. Whatever you choose, get offers in writing and compare more than one.
1. Price it to sell with a real estate agent
Speed
Depends on the local market, your price and the buyer's financing. Pricing slightly below comparable homes usually draws faster interest.
Typical costs
Agent commissions are often 5–6% of the sale price, plus seller closing costs and any repairs or concessions negotiated after the buyer's inspection.
Best for
Homes in good condition, and owners who can handle showings and want the most money from the open market.
2. iBuyers and instant online offers
Speed
Often quick to get an initial number, with a flexible closing date.
Typical costs
Usually a service fee plus deductions for repairs found during the inspection, so the final number can differ from the first one. Compare the net amount you'd receive, not the headline offer.
Best for
Newer, move-in-ready homes that match the company's criteria. Many iBuyers don't buy homes needing major work.
3. Local investors and "we buy houses" companies
Speed
Can be fast because there's usually no lender appraisal or repair negotiation, but it varies by buyer.
Typical costs
No commission in most cases, but the price usually reflects the cost of repairs and the investor's profit, so it's generally below a repaired home's market value. Some investors assign their contract to another buyer.
Best for
Homes that need significant work, inherited properties, rentals, and owners who value certainty and convenience over top price.
4. Selling directly to a builder
Speed
Varies. Builders may need time for surveys, permits or plans, which can lengthen the contract period.
Typical costs
Usually no commission. Builders price based on what they can build on the lot, so an older house on a large lot can be worth more to them than to a regular buyer.
Best for
Older homes on valuable lots in neighborhoods with new construction.
5. Auction
Speed
The sale date is set in advance, which can create a firm timeline.
Typical costs
Auction fees and buyer's premiums vary by company. The final price is uncertain and depends on who shows up to bid.
Best for
Sellers who want a fixed date and accept price uncertainty, or unusual properties that are hard to price.
Red flags with any cash buyer
- No written offer, or an offer that changes after you've agreed.
- Pressure to sign the same day or before you've had someone review the contract.
- Large non-refundable fees charged to you, the seller.
- Unclear assignment: the buyer may assign the contract to someone else but doesn't tell you in writing.
- No licensed title company or closing attorney handling the closing.
When Homeowner's Ally may — or may not — be the right fit
We may be a good fit if your home or land needs work, you've inherited it, you're a tired landlord, or you'd rather skip repairs, showings and commissions and choose your closing date. We buy homes in Texas, Florida and the Phoenix metro, and land across Texas and Florida.
We're probably not the best fit if your home is updated, you have time to list it, and your top priority is the highest possible price — an agent may net you more. Either way, we're happy to put an offer in writing so you can compare.