It seems that everywhere you turn there are companies who advertise buying ugly houses. These messages offer to quickly buy any house, regardless of the condition. The problem is that their offers are often significantly below market value.

If you’re a seller whose home needs some attention, you might think these companies are your only option. Some of the offers sound attractive; quick sale, all cash, no commissions, and no fees. But before you do anything, it’s worth your time to call a local real estate agent for a second opinion.

3 Reasons to Call a Real Estate Agent Now

1. Free Advice— Our Agents will not charge you anything to simply come look at your home.

2. Your House Might Not Be that Ugly–You may be surprised to find that your home is quite marketable. A few years ago, a 1950s mid-century modern home would have been considered a tear-down. Now, these ranch homes command top dollar and are in very short supply.

3. A Path Forward–If your home does have some issues, the agent can offer some ideas about moving forward. They can suggest local contractors to provide repair/upgrade services or market to investors that might still offer significantly higher prices than the quick-sale guys.

Even outdated houses sell. We are in a seller’s market in almost every part of the country. Selling your home has a large financial impact on you and your family. Don’t make assumptions about value, reach out to a real estate agent, and make sure you understand all your options so you can get the best offer possible.