Question 1

What is One Piece Home Buyers?

Accepted Answer

We are a professional real estate solutions company that helps homeowners explore the best way to sell their property. Depending on your unique situation, we may purchase the home directly for cash, structure a creative financing solution, assist with a short sale, or even recommend listing the property with a licensed real estate agent if that would better serve your goals. Our primary focus is providing you with the right options so you can make an informed decision.

Question 2

Where do you buy houses?

Accepted Answer

Our primary service areas are the Chicago metropolitan area in Illinois and the Atlanta metropolitan area in Georgia. We have deep local market knowledge in these regions, which allows us to make fair and accurate offers. However, we also review opportunities nationwide and can often assist sellers in other locations through our network of trusted partners.

Question 3

Do you buy houses in my neighborhood?

Accepted Answer

Most likely, yes. We purchase properties in a wide variety of neighborhoods, from urban centers to suburban communities. Simply provide us with the property address, and our team will quickly verify if it falls within our buying criteria and how we can best assist you.

Question 4

Are you a real estate agent?

Accepted Answer

One Piece Home Buyers is primarily a real estate investment company that buys houses directly from homeowners. We do not act as your real estate agent to list the property on the MLS, which means you won't pay us any commissions. However, depending on the situation, we may recommend listing the property through a licensed real estate agent if we determine that is the better solution for your specific needs.

Question 5

How do you make money?

Accepted Answer

We invest in real estate by purchasing properties, renovating them to modern standards, and then either renting them out or selling them for a modest profit. In some cases, we may wholesale certain opportunities or use other investment strategies depending on the property's condition and location. Our goal is to create a win-win scenario where you get a fair price and a fast sale, and we can sustainably run our business.

Question 6

Do you work with licensed real estate agents?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we frequently collaborate with licensed real estate professionals. If we evaluate your situation and determine that listing your home on the open market will yield the highest return for you, we can help connect you with top-performing local agents. We believe in providing the best possible guidance, even if it means we aren't the ones buying your house.

Question 7

How does your cash buying process work?

Accepted Answer

The process begins when you contact us with details about your property and your selling goals. Our acquisitions team will thoroughly review the information and determine the best possible solution for your situation. If a direct cash purchase makes the most sense, we will present you with a fair, no-obligation cash offer, allowing you to skip the traditional listing process entirely.

Question 8

Do I have to accept your offer?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. There is never any obligation or pressure to accept our cash offer. We provide the offer for your consideration, and you are completely free to decide whether it aligns with your financial goals and timeline.

Question 9

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Every real estate transaction is unique, but we specialize in moving quickly. Many of our transactions close in as little as 7 to 21 days, providing you with fast access to cash. In cases involving complex title work, financing, or probate, it may take slightly longer, but we always work diligently to meet your preferred timeline.

Question 10

Can I choose my closing date?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you have full control over the closing timeline. Whether you need to close in a matter of days to avoid foreclosure, or you need several months to arrange your next living situation, we will coordinate the closing date to fit your specific schedule.

Question 11

Do I need to clean or repair the house?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. We buy houses completely as-is, meaning you don't have to lift a finger to clean, paint, or make any repairs. You can even leave behind unwanted furniture or trash, and our team will handle the cleanup and renovations after the sale is complete.

Question 12

Do I pay commissions?

Accepted Answer

Typically, no. When we purchase your property directly as an investment company, there are absolutely no real estate agent commissions or listing fees involved. This keeps more of the final sale price directly in your pocket compared to a traditional MLS listing.

Question 13

Do I pay closing costs?

Accepted Answer

In the vast majority of our direct cash purchases, we cover all the normal closing costs associated with the transaction. While every situation is unique and subject to the final agreement, our goal is to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses so the offer you see is the cash you receive.

Question 14

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No, we strictly operate with complete transparency throughout the entire buying process. The offer we present outlines exactly what you will receive, with no surprise charges, hidden administrative fees, or last-minute deductions.

Question 15

What if my house would sell for more on the MLS?

Accepted Answer

If we believe that listing your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is likely to produce a significantly better financial outcome for you, we will honestly explain that option. Our primary goal is to recommend the best path forward for your specific situation, even if it means advising you against a direct cash sale.

Question 16

Do you buy houses that need repairs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in purchasing properties that require significant repairs, structural work, or complete cosmetic updates. You won't need to hire contractors or spend any money fixing up the property before selling. We take on all the renovation work ourselves after the closing.

Question 17

Do you buy ugly houses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we absolutely buy houses that might be considered 'ugly' or severely outdated. Whether the property has extreme cosmetic issues, peeling paint, or hasn't been updated since the 1970s, we are interested in making a fair cash offer. We see the hidden potential in every property.

Question 18

Do you buy vacant houses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we frequently purchase vacant properties that have been sitting empty for months or even years. Vacant houses can often become a liability, attracting vandalism or deteriorating over time, so selling it quickly for cash is often the best way to eliminate ongoing holding costs like taxes and insurance.

Question 19

Do you buy inherited properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have extensive experience working with families who have inherited properties through probate or trust. We understand that dealing with an inherited home can be emotionally and legally taxing, so we strive to make the sale process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

Question 20

Do you buy rental properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we actively purchase rental properties, whether they are currently occupied by reliable tenants or completely vacant. If you are a tired landlord looking to exit the rental business, we can take the property off your hands quickly without disrupting the current lease agreements.

Question 21

Do you buy houses with tenants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we regularly buy houses that currently have tenants living in them. You don't need to wait for the lease to expire or go through the difficult process of eviction before selling. We will assume the existing lease and handle all tenant communications moving forward.

Question 22

Do you buy fire-damaged properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we purchase homes that have suffered from fire or severe smoke damage. Repairing a fire-damaged house can be incredibly expensive and complicated, but we have the resources and expertise to buy it as-is, allowing you to move on without dealing with the restoration.

Question 23

Do you buy homes with foundation problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes, structural issues and foundation problems do not deter us from making an offer. While foundation repairs can scare away traditional retail buyers, our team of investors and contractors is fully equipped to handle major structural overhauls.

Question 24

Do you buy condemned properties?

Accepted Answer

We evaluate condemned properties on a case-by-case basis, but we are certainly open to purchasing them. If the property has severe code violations or has been deemed uninhabitable by the city, we can often step in, buy it for cash, and work with local authorities to rehabilitate the site.

Question 25

Do you buy mobile homes?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the situation, the condition, and the specific location, we may purchase mobile or manufactured homes. We generally prefer mobile homes that include the land they sit on, but we encourage you to submit your property details so we can give you a definitive answer.

Question 26

Can you help if I'm behind on my mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can often help homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments. By purchasing the property quickly for cash, we can provide the funds needed to pay off the outstanding loan balance and avoid further damage to your credit score. We'll need to learn more about your specific financial situation to discuss the best available options.

Question 27

Can you help stop foreclosure?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the timing and the specific circumstances of the foreclosure process, we may be able to help stop it. Selling your house to us before the bank auction can satisfy the debt and save your credit from the severe impact of a foreclosure. It is critical that you contact us as soon as possible so we have enough time to intervene.

Question 28

Do you buy houses with liens?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we routinely buy houses that have various types of liens attached to the title, including mechanic's liens, HOA liens, or judgment liens. In most cases, these liens can be successfully negotiated and paid off during the closing process using the proceeds from the sale.

Question 29

Do you buy houses with unpaid taxes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, properties with delinquent property taxes or active tax liens are situations we handle frequently. When we purchase the home, the outstanding tax balance is typically settled at closing, relieving you of the debt and preventing a potential tax deed sale by the county.

Question 30

What if I owe more than the house is worth?

Accepted Answer

If your mortgage balance exceeds the current market value of your home, a short sale or another creative financing solution may be possible. Our team has experience navigating these complex situations and can work directly with your lender to find a resolution that allows you to sell the property.

Question 31

What is Subject-To?

Accepted Answer

Subject-To is a creative purchasing strategy where a buyer acquires ownership of a property while leaving the seller's existing mortgage in place. The buyer takes over making the monthly payments on that loan. Whether this is an appropriate solution depends heavily on the homeowner's goals, the terms of the existing financing, and the overall situation.

Question 32

Do you offer seller financing?

Accepted Answer

In certain situations, yes, we can structure a deal using seller financing. This involves you acting as the bank, where we make agreed-upon monthly payments directly to you over a set period of time, often providing you with a better overall return on your investment. We can discuss if this strategy aligns with your financial objectives.

Question 33

What is a wraparound mortgage?

Accepted Answer

A wraparound mortgage is a type of creative financing structure where a new mortgage is created that 'wraps around' and includes the balance of the existing underlying mortgage. This strategy can be beneficial in certain transactions, allowing for more flexible terms and potentially higher purchase prices.

Question 34

What is a land contract?

Accepted Answer

A land contract, also known as a Contract for Deed or an installment land contract, is a financing agreement where the seller retains the legal title to the property until the buyer pays off the purchase price in installments. This is another potential solution we can utilize depending on your specific circumstances and preferences.

Question 35

Can every seller qualify for creative financing?

Accepted Answer

No, creative financing is not a one-size-fits-all solution and doesn't apply to every transaction. Our acquisitions team carefully reviews each situation individually to determine if a creative structure is legally viable, financially sound, and ultimately beneficial for both you and our company.

Question 36

Is my information kept private?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we take your privacy very seriously and maintain strict confidentiality. We only use the information you provide to evaluate your property, formulate an offer, and communicate directly with you. We do not sell your personal data to third-party marketing companies.

Question 37

What happens after I submit my information?

Accepted Answer

Once you submit your property details, a dedicated member of our acquisitions team will review the information and conduct some initial market research. We will then contact you promptly to discuss your situation, answer any questions you have, and outline the next steps toward generating an offer.

Question 38

Can I change my mind?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. There is zero obligation simply for requesting information, having a conversation with us, or even receiving a formal cash offer. You are entirely in control of the process and can choose to walk away at any time before signing a binding purchase agreement.

Question 39

Do I have to sign anything immediately?

Accepted Answer

No, you never have to sign anything immediately. We encourage you to take your time, review our offer carefully, and even consult with family members or financial advisors. We want you to feel completely comfortable and confident in your decision to sell.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Company & Services

The Cash Buying Process

Types of Properties We Buy

Financial & Distressed Situations

Creative Financing Options

Privacy & Next Steps

Still Have Questions?

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