You've seen the signs everywhere: "We Buy Houses Cash!" tacked to telephone poles, plastered on billboards, and flooding your mailbox. With so many companies making similar claims, it's natural to wonder: are these "we buy houses" companies actually legitimate?
The short answer is: some are, and some aren't. Here's how to tell the difference and protect yourself when selling your Long Island home.
The Good News: Many Cash Buyers Are Legitimate
The home buying industry has grown significantly over the past two decades, and many cash buyers run professional, ethical businesses. These companies provide a valuable service for homeowners who need to sell quickly or have properties that are difficult to sell traditionally.
- Legitimate cash buyers:
- Have verifiable track records and reviews
- Can prove they have funds to close
- Don't charge upfront fees
- Give you time to make decisions
- Put everything in writing
- Close when they say they will
Red Flags: How to Spot a Scam
Unfortunately, the industry also attracts bad actors. Here are the warning signs to watch for:
1. Upfront Fees A legitimate cash buyer will NEVER ask you to pay fees upfront. If someone asks for "processing fees," "administrative fees," or any other payment before closing, walk away immediately.
2. Pressure Tactics "This offer expires today!" "Sign now or lose the deal!" These high-pressure tactics are designed to prevent you from thinking clearly. Legitimate buyers give you time to consider their offer and consult with others.
3. Can't Prove Funds Any serious cash buyer should be able to show proof of funds - a bank statement or letter from their financial institution confirming they can close the deal. If they can't or won't provide this, they may be a wholesaler who doesn't actually have the money.
4. No Online Presence In 2026, every legitimate business has an online footprint. Look for: - Google reviews (and read them carefully) - A professional website - Better Business Bureau listing - Social media presence - Verifiable business address
5. Won't Visit the Property How can someone make a fair offer on a house they've never seen? Serious buyers always want to inspect the property before finalizing their offer.
6. The Offer Seems Too Good If someone offers you significantly more than other buyers, be suspicious. They may be planning to renegotiate later or back out entirely after you've wasted weeks.
Understanding Wholesalers vs. Direct Buyers
One major distinction in this industry is between wholesalers and direct buyers:
Wholesalers - Put your house under contract, then sell that contract to another buyer - Add their fee on top, reducing what you actually receive - May not be able to close if they can't find a buyer - Often the source of "bait and switch" experiences
Direct Buyers - Have their own funds to purchase your home - Close the deal themselves - More reliable and straightforward - What you're quoted is what you get
At Easy Sell Property Solutions, we're direct buyers. We have a $10 million credit line and never wholesale properties. When we make an offer, we close the deal ourselves.
Questions to Ask Any Cash Buyer
Before agreeing to sell, ask these important questions:
1. Are you the actual buyer or a wholesaler? 2. Can you show me proof of funds? 3. How long have you been in business? 4. Can I see your Google reviews? 5. Do you have a physical office I can visit? 6. What happens after I accept your offer? 7. Are there any fees I'll need to pay? 8. Can I have your offer in writing? 9. What's your timeline for closing? 10. What if I change my mind?
A legitimate buyer will answer all these questions openly and honestly.
How to Verify a Cash Buyer's Legitimacy
Do your homework before signing anything:
Check Google Reviews Look for companies with numerous reviews over several years. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a complete picture.
Verify Business Registration Check with the NY Secretary of State to confirm the business is registered and in good standing.
Look for Industry Credentials Membership in organizations like the Better Business Bureau or local real estate investor associations suggests legitimacy.
Research the Owner A trustworthy company won't hide who's behind it. At Easy Sell, Billy Alvaro is the face of our business - a US Air Force veteran and former Long Island police officer with over 20 years in real estate.
Ask for References Legitimate buyers should be able to provide references from past sellers.
Why Easy Sell Is Different
We've been buying homes on Long Island since 2009 because we do things the right way:
- 70+ five-star Google reviews from real clients
- Physical office in East Setauket you can visit
- $120 million+ in completed transactions
- Veteran and police officer owned
- Named "Investor with Integrity" by Kevin Harrington
- Never charge any fees to sellers
- Written offers with no pressure
- 7-day closing guarantee
The Bottom Line
Yes, many "we buy houses" companies are legitimate businesses that provide real value to homeowners. But scams do exist, so do your due diligence before signing anything.
Look for established companies with verifiable track records, ask tough questions, and never pay upfront fees. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and walk away.
Want to work with a cash buyer you can trust? We invite you to research us, read our reviews, and visit our office. We're confident you'll see why Long Island homeowners have trusted Easy Sell for over 20 years.
About Billy Alvaro
Billy Alvaro is the founder of Easy Sell Property Solutions, a family-run cash home buying company based in Long Island. With over 20 years of experience and $120M+ in transactions, Billy helps homeowners sell their properties quickly and hassle-free.
Learn more about our team →Need to Sell Your House Fast?
Get a fair, no-obligation cash offer on your Long Island home today.