When it comes time to sell a home, most sellers today are choosing between three main options: listing with a traditional real estate agent, selling to an iBuyer, or selling directly to a cash buyer. Each path can work well depending on the seller’s priorities, timeline, and the condition of the property. Understanding the differences upfront can help you avoid surprises and choose the option that best fits your situation.
Listing with a Realtor
Listing with a real estate agent is the most traditional route. An agent markets the home on the MLS, schedules showings, negotiates with buyers, and manages the transaction through closing. This option often delivers the highest possible price because the home is exposed to the open market. However, it usually requires repairs, staging, cleaning, and weeks—or months—of uncertainty. Sellers also pay agent commissions and must be prepared for buyer financing delays, inspections, and potential contract fallout.
There are other options also to sell your house without a realtor, in addition to the options below. See our blog Can I Sell My Home Without a Realtor?.
What is an iBuyer?
iBuyers are large, tech-driven companies that make quick offers based on algorithms and local market data. The main appeal is convenience: sellers can avoid showings, pick a flexible closing date, and move quickly. That said, iBuyers typically charge service fees, deduct for repairs after inspections, and may reduce their offer later in the process. In many cases, the final net proceeds are lower than expected, especially for homes that need work or fall outside the iBuyer’s preferred criteria.
iBuyers also change strategy with the market. Zillow is a good example of this. Zillow was buying homes on the open market until November 2021, when they suddenly stopped. A lot of iBuyers like Open Door and Offerpad have changed strategies in 2026. They are looking to partner with you in your house as much as buy your house.
Cash Home Buyer
Selling to a cash buyer is a more direct and flexible option. Cash buyers—often investors or local home-buying companies—purchase properties as-is, meaning no repairs, no cleaning, and no staging. Closings can happen in days instead of weeks, and there’s no risk of financing falling through. While the purchase price is typically lower than a retail listing, sellers often save money on commissions, repairs, and holding costs, which can make the net result surprisingly competitive.
The biggest difference between these options comes down to control versus convenience. Agents aim to maximize price but require time and preparation. iBuyers prioritize speed and simplicity but rely heavily on formulas and fees. Cash buyers focus on certainty and problem-solving, making them ideal for inherited properties, homes with deferred maintenance, or sellers facing time-sensitive situations like relocation, divorce, or financial strain. If you would like to learn other strategies, see this article How Fast Can I Sell My House As-Is in Augusta, Georgia?
Ultimately, the best way to sell your home depends on what matters most to you. If top dollar is the goal and time isn’t an issue, listing with an agent may make sense. If you want a fast, predictable sale without repairs or delays, a cash buyer can be the cleanest solution. By weighing price, timeline, effort, and risk, sellers can confidently choose the path that aligns with their goals and move forward without regret.
