How each option works, in plain English.

Seller financing

You sell the property and act as the lender. The buyer pays you monthly, with interest, under a promissory note secured by a deed of trust or mortgage recorded against the property.

Best for

Owners with a paid-off (or nearly paid-off) property who want income rather than a lump sum.

You get

Monthly payments and interest income; possible tax-timing benefits.

Protections

A recorded lien; optional third-party loan servicing; foreclosure remedies if payments stop.

Ask your advisor

How installment-sale reporting affects your taxes, and what remedies your state provides.

Cash

A straightforward purchase for an agreed price, typically as-is, closing through a title company or attorney on your timeline.

Best for

Sellers who need certainty and speed, or a property needing major repairs.

You get

One payment at closing; no repairs, showings or cleanup.

Trade-off

Cash offers usually reflect the cost and risk of an as-is purchase.

Ask your advisor

Whether a listing or a terms deal might net you more.

Subject-to

We buy the property “subject to” your existing mortgage: the loan stays in your name and in place, and we make the payments going forward.

Best for

Owners who are behind, have little equity, or need to move quickly.

You get

Relief from the monthly payment and a path out of the property.

Important

The loan remains in your name, and most mortgages contain a due-on-sale clause. We explain the risks in writing and recommend independent legal advice.

Ask your advisor

How this affects your credit and liability, and what happens if payments stop.

Wraparound (wrap)

A new seller-financed loan that “wraps around” an existing mortgage. The buyer pays the seller, and the seller continues paying the underlying loan, often through a servicer.

Best for

Sellers with an existing low-rate loan who want monthly income.

You get

The spread between payments, plus a sale price on your terms.

Important

Same due-on-sale considerations as subject-to; a servicer helps keep everyone protected.

Ask your advisor

Licensing and disclosure rules in your state.

Wholesale & partnerships

Sometimes the best buyer for a property is one of the investors on our list. We may assign our contract or bring in a partner, and we disclose that we may profit from doing so.

Best for

Properties that fit a specific investor’s strategy.

You get

A buyer who wants exactly what you have.

Transparency

Our role and interest are disclosed in writing.

Ask your advisor

Any questions about assignment clauses before you sign.