Cash Offer vs. Listing in San Diego: Compare Net Proceeds
An explicitly hypothetical example shows why the offer price, selling costs, repairs, and carrying costs belong in the same comparison.
Compare the money you keep
Use the same assumptions on both sides. Include price, negotiated commissions or fees, escrow/title and other seller costs, concessions, repairs, carrying costs, and any loan payoff. Commissions are negotiable; the illustration below does not prescribe a rate.
| Item | Cash-offer path | Listing path |
|---|---|---|
| Sale price | $900,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Assumed selling fees/commissions | $0 | $40,000 |
| Other seller closing costs | $10,000 | $12,000 |
| Repairs/preparation | $0 | $20,000 |
| Carrying costs during sale | $2,000 | $8,000 |
| Estimated proceeds before payoff/taxes | $888,000 | $920,000 |
In this example, listing produces $32,000 more before loan payoff and taxes. Different prices, fees, inspection adjustments, concessions, and timelines can reverse or widen that difference. Taxes, mortgage payoff, and any costs not shown must still be considered.
Compare certainty and work too
Ask whether the buyer has verified funds, what can change after inspections, when contingencies expire, who pays each cost, and when you must move. A cash purchase can still contain conditions. A listing can produce stronger proceeds, but neither outcome is guaranteed.
Questions before you sign
- Who is the actual buyer, and can the agreement be assigned?
- What fees or deductions apply now or after inspection?
- What makes the closing date conditional?
- How does the estimated net compare with a realistic listing plan?
Read the as-is selling guide or request your own comparison. There is no obligation to sell.
Talk through your next step
Start with your property, your timing, and the decision you need help making. Bobby can explain the real estate options and help identify questions for your other advisers.
Call Bobby: 858-204-7259Email Bobby