Selling a house in Sacramento fast can be a big plus for many homeowners whether you need to move quickly, are facing financial hardship, or just want to avoid the hassle of a long selling process. But how fast can a house really sell in Sacramento? In this post, we’ll look at the factors that affect the speed of a sale, cash buyer sales vs traditional sales, and give you tips on how to speed up the process in Sacramento.

How Fast Can a House Sell in Sacramento?

Fastest Sale: Cash Buyers in Sacramento

In Sacramento, a house can sell in as little as 7 to 14 days if you’re working with a cash buyer. Cash sales eliminate the mortgage approval process which is often the longest part of the transaction. Since cash buyers don’t need a loan the sale can move faster with fewer delays and no risk of the buyer’s financing falling through.

In rare cases, both parties are prepared and the paperwork is complete sales can close in just a few days. Some extreme cases have shown houses can sell in as little as 4 hours in other markets under perfect conditions.

Real Estate Auctions and Quick-Sale Companies

Other fast-sale options in Sacramento, that are not as reliable, are selling through an auction or using quick-sale companies. Auctions can sell your home in 7-14 days especially if your home is in a high-demand neighborhood like Midtown Sacramento. Quick-sale companies like Opendoor or RedfinNow can close in 7-14 days depending on your home’s condition and market demand.

Cash Buyer vs. Traditional Sale in Sacramento

Cash Buyer Timeline

Cash sales close much faster, often in 7 to 14 days. This is because cash buyers don’t need mortgage approval or appraisals which can save weeks. These buyers are often investors or individuals who need to close quickly so they offer a straightforward path to a fast sale.

• Fewer Contingencies: Cash buyers usually waive contingencies like financing or inspection contingencies so the sale can move faster.

• Less Delays: Since there’s no loan underwriting the sale can close without waiting for lender approval.

Traditional Sale Timeline

On the other hand, traditional sales in Sacramento can take 30 to 45 days mostly due to the mortgage process. Buyers who are financing need to go through a longer process that includes mortgage approval, appraisals, and home inspections which can add weeks to the timeline.

• Mortgage Approval: Mortgage approval takes 2-4 weeks where the buyer’s financials are reviewed and an appraisal is done.

• Inspections and Appraisals: These are more common in traditional sales and can lead to renegotiations or repairs which can add days or weeks to the process.

• Contingencies: Traditional buyers may have financing, inspection, and appraisal contingencies which adds more steps to the closing process.

Cash Buyer Flexibility

Cash buyers are more flexible than traditional buyers. They can adjust to the seller’s timeline whereas traditional buyers have to wait for their lender’s timeline.

Pricing

Cash buyers offer lower prices than traditional buyers to compensate for the convenience and speed of the sale. But in Sacramento’s competitive market, cash offers can be closer to market value, especially in high-demand neighborhoods like East Sacramento and Natomas. In hot areas sellers may find cash buyers will meet the asking price to close quickly.

What Affects Quick House Sales in Sacramento

Sacramento Local Market

Sacramento’s market is affected by many factors including demand, seasonality, and the overall economy. Sacramento is considered affordable compared to neighboring areas like the Bay Area so it’s attractive to buyers. This can speed up house sales, especially in areas like Arden-Arcade, Elk Grove, and Curtis Park.

Also, the market moves faster during peak seasons like spring and summer when buyer demand is higher. Sellers who list their homes during these times will see quicker offers.

Cash vs. Financed Buyers in Sacramento

• Cash Buyers: Investors and all-cash buyers are more prevalent in Sacramento than in many other parts of the country especially in areas like Midtown Sacramento and East Sacramento. These buyers are looking for properties they can buy quickly and either rent out or flip so they are perfect for fast sales.

• Mortgage Buyers: Traditional buyers who need financing will take longer due to the mortgage process adding 30-45 days to the timeline.

Property Condition and Sale Speed

Move-in ready homes sell faster, especially in popular areas like Natomas and Elk Grove. Homes that need major repairs will face delays due to inspections and renegotiations. Cash buyers are more willing to buy homes in “as-is” condition so the sale can close faster.