We Buy Houses Rochester, MN: 5 Top Companies
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- 15 min read
- Joseph Gordon EditorCloseJoseph Gordon Editor
Joseph Gordon is an Editor with HomeLight. He has several years of experience reporting on the commercial real estate and insurance industries.
Are you considering selling your home in Rochester, Minnesota, but daunted by the prospect of repairs and long market waits? We Buy Houses companies might be your solution, offering all-cash deals for homes that often need a little or a lot of TLC. These companies cater to sellers like you, who may lack the time, expertise, or funds for home improvements, providing a swift path to selling your property and moving forward with your life plans.
When you’re facing an urgent need to sell — perhaps due to a job relocation, financial constraints, or other personal circumstances — opting for a cash sale can be a practical choice. It’s a route that simplifies the selling process, bypassing the usual hassles of staging, repairs, and uncertain timelines.
This post will guide you through the intricacies of working with house-buying companies in Rochester. We’ll explore the pros and cons, helping you consider your options effectively. Whether in a tight spot or just seeking a quick sale, understanding these key points will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Links and mentions of Rochester area “We Buy Houses” companies should not be considered endorsements.
Working with house-buying companies in Rochester
We Buy Houses companies in Rochester typically promise to give home sellers quick, convenient all-cash offers, and exceptionally speedy closings, often wrapping up the property sale in as few as seven days. These house-buying companies have polished their processes to help sellers who need to move ASAP, and tend to target distressed homes in need of repairs.
Here’s how the process generally works:
- Contact the company: Find a reputable house-buying company in Rochester and provide them with details of your property.
- Schedule an evaluation: The company will schedule a time to visit your home and assess its condition and value.
- Receive an offer: After the evaluation, the company will present you with a cash offer, typically within 24 to 48 hours.
- Accept the offer: If you agree to the terms, you will accept the cash offer and proceed with the sale.
- Close the deal: The company will handle the necessary paperwork and coordinate the closing process, often within a few weeks.
- Receive your payment: At closing, you will receive the agreed-upon cash amount, and the transaction is complete.
Note: Individual program details frequently change. Please visit a company’s website for the most up-to-date information. HomeLight always recommends doing your own research to determine which selling option is best for your situation.
Popular We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Rochester
If the process of selling to a house-buying company in Rochester, Minnesota, sounds good to you, it’s time to find a legitimate operation you can trust.
We’ve compiled some top companies that will pay cash for your or your parents’ ranch-style home or mid-century modern house. By selling to one of these companies, you can sell your Rochester home in as little as a week or two.
Minnesota Home Brothers
Minnesota Home Brothers is a family-owned real estate company specializing in buying houses quickly and easily for cash. Founded by the Tobler brothers — Matt, Hank, and Andrew — the company prides itself on offering a hassle-free, as-is home-selling experience with no fees, commissions, or inspections required. They provide fair, all-cash offers, cover closing costs, and handle repairs, allowing sellers to choose their closing date.
The company is committed to community building and integrity, ensuring transparent, stress-free transactions. They focus on adding value through tailored solutions while maintaining strong relationships with clients beyond the sale. Minnesota Home Brothers is known for reliability, professionalism, and transforming properties in Minnesota.
Locations: Across Minnesota, including Rochester
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; Minnesota Home Brothers covers them.
Minnesota Home Brothers has a perfect 5-star Google review rating, and the team consistently receives high praise for their professionalism, trustworthiness, and exceptional customer service. Clients appreciate their ability to handle challenging situations, such as difficult tenants, urgent sales, or complex transactions, with patience and understanding. Many reviews highlight the team’s prompt communication, fair pricing, and smooth, efficient closings. Customers frequently recommend Minnesota Home Brothers for their reliability, honesty, and commitment to making the sale process as stress-free as possible, even in unique or complicated circumstances. Subcontractors and repeat clients also commend their responsiveness and professionalism. Minnesota Home Brothers has an A+ rating with the BBB but is not currently accredited.
Website: minnesotahomebrothers.com
Phone: 952-230-2324
Simple Sale (a HomeLight platform)
Simple Sale, a solution from HomeLight, is an online platform where sellers in Rochester and across the country can request a cash offer for their home. Simple Sale connects you to the largest network of cash buyers in the US, and partner investors have a wide range of investment strategies, including fix-and-flip and buy-and-hold. This enables Simple Sale to provide cash offers for a wide array of properties, even those that need some or a lot of work, in locations throughout Rochester.
With Simple Sale, you can get a no-obligation, all-cash offer in as little as24 hours and sell your home in as few as 10 days, skipping the months it can take to sell the traditional way.
Locations: Nationwide, including Rochester
Closing costs: No prep costs, no agent commissions, and no fees charged by HomeLight. Individual investor fees may vary.
Simple Sale is a HomeLight platform. HomeLight was founded in 2012 and is BBB-accredited with an A rating. The company has 4.8 stars on Google based on hundreds of user reviews. Below, you can hear about how Baohan Wu, a seller who used Simple Sale to sell his high-rise apartment, closed within three and a half weeks and what he thought of the process overall.
Learn more: homelight.com/simple
Phone: 844-488-8455
MN Nice Home Buyers
MN Nice Home Buyers is a family-owned business based in Minnesota, specializing in buying homes for cash. Founded by Travis and Leah, who have been investing in local real estate since 2002, the company prides itself on being rooted in the Minnesota community. They buy homes in any condition across various neighborhoods and counties in the state, offering a quick and hassle-free selling process with no fees, commissions, or required repairs. The closing schedule is also flexible, and can work on the seller’s timeline if a slower sale is preferred. Their team emphasizes transparency, honesty, and integrity, ensuring a smooth experience for homeowners seeking fast cash offers without traditional real estate complexities.
Locations: Across Minnesota, including Rochester
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; MN Nice Home Buyers covers them.
MN Nice Home Buyers has a 4.9-star rating on Google reviews, and customers say the company provides a stress-free and straightforward home-selling experience. Reviewers highlight the company’s professionalism, transparency, and commitment to honoring their initial offers without hidden fees or surprises. Customers appreciate the ease of selling their homes as-is, without needing repairs, showings, or cleanup, and the flexibility to choose their closing dates. Many note the team’s clear communication, responsiveness, and personal attention throughout the process. MN Nice is often recommended for their fair offers, reliability, and hassle-free transactions, making them a trusted choice for quick home sales. MN Nice Home Buyers has been BBB accredited since 2019 and holds an A+ rating.
Website: mnnice.com/we-buy-houses/rochester
Phone: 612-930-2000
We Buy Houses Southern MN
We Buy Houses Southern MN is a family-owned and operated business based in Southern Minnesota, specializing in purchasing homes in as-is condition. Founded in a small town, they bring a personal, community-focused approach to real estate, treating their clients like family throughout the entire process. They provide a fast, hassle-free experience by offering fair, all-cash offers with no commissions, fees, or repair requirements. Their services cater to homeowners facing various situations, including foreclosure, inherited properties, or extensive repairs, and they aim to revitalize neighborhoods through property restoration.
Locations: Southern Minnesota, including Rochester
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; We Buy Houses Southern MN covers them.
We Buy Houses Southern MN has a perfect 5-star rating on Google reviews, and clients frequently commend the company for their outstanding service, noting how Grant and his team deliver a seamless and stress-free home-selling experience. Many highlight their ability to manage complex situations, such as quick sales or inherited properties with family disagreements. The team’s honesty, transparency, and fair pricing consistently stand out, along with their efficiency in handling repairs and clean-outs. Whether navigating foreclosure or extensive repairs, customers appreciate the straightforward process and personalized approach, often recommending the company for their professionalism and friendly support. We Buy Houses Southern MN is not currently listed on the BBB website.
Website: webuyhousessouthernmn.com
Phone: 507-248-5775
Minnesota Home Guys
Minnesota Home Guys is a family-owned real estate solutions company based in Minneapolis, co-founded by Jaden Ghylin and James Kolde. With extensive experience in buying and selling more than 500 homes, they prioritize integrity, empathy, and excellence, aiming to become the nation’s most trusted home buying service. Their mission focuses on helping homeowners navigate difficult situations — such as divorce, foreclosure, or property maintenance issues — by offering fair and transparent solutions.
The company’s unique origin story is rooted in friendships formed during backyard boot hockey games in Savage, Minnesota. Each team member is dedicated to providing a hassle-free experience, with services that include cash offers and covering closing costs, ensuring a smooth transition for sellers. The team’s commitment to community revitalization reflects their vision of building trust and transforming lives, allowing homeowners to move forward with confidence.
Locations: Across Minnesota, including Rochester
Closing costs: Sellers pay no closing costs; Minnesota Home Guys covers them.
Minnesota Home Guys has a 4.8-star rating on Google reviews, and customers highlight their professional and stress-free home-selling process. Many reviewers appreciated the team’s efficiency, transparency, and fair pricing, with some emphasizing the convenience of selling homes as-is without repairs or cleanouts. The staff, including James Kolde and his team, were frequently noted for their friendliness and excellent communication, going above and beyond to make the process easy for homeowners in various situations, such as downsizing or selling inherited properties. Minnesota Home Guys has been BBB accredited since 2017 and holds an A+ rating.
Website: homeguysmn.com
Phone: 952-649-3200
Why sell your Rochester house for cash?
There are several compelling reasons for Rochester homeowners to partner with a cash-for-homes company when selling their property. The primary benefits include speed, certainty, and convenience. Cash-for-homes companies allow sellers to receive cash offers quickly and close the deal in as little as seven days, making it ideal for those needing a fast sale due to relocation or personal circumstances.
Additionally, these companies provide guaranteed cash offers, eliminating the uncertainty associated with traditional sales, such as financing issues or potential deal collapses. Sellers can sell their homes as-is, avoiding costly repairs and the stress of staging, allowing them to focus on their next steps with peace of mind. Overall, for those looking for a hassle-free selling experience, a cash-for-homes company offers an advantageous solution.
In Rochester, selling a home on the market typically takes 84 days using an agent. That includes an average of 40 days on the market plus the typical 44 days a buyer needs to close on a purchase loan.
Compare that to the typical seven to 10 days promised by many house-buying companies in Rochester, and it’s clear why these cash-for-homes groups are an attractive option, even though they don’t always offer top-dollar for the homes they purchase.
Selling your Rochester home for cash to a house-buying company can be an appealing option in the right situation. These companies are growing in popularity, especially for sellers needing more time to prepare, market, and close a traditional home sale.
Let’s look at some of the most common reasons Rochester sellers use a We Buy Houses for Cash company over listing a property the traditional way.
- Significant repairs needed: If your home has major issues like foundation problems or water damage, selling for cash can be a practical solution.
- Quick cash requirement: Whether due to divorce, medical needs, financial strain, or job relocation, a fast cash sale can be crucial.
- Lack of repair funds: If you can’t afford or don’t want to invest in home repairs, selling to a cash buyer offers an easy way out.
- Avoiding stress and work: Selling for cash means no stress or hassle from prepping the home, coordinating showings, and navigating complex sales processes.
- Privacy concerns: Opt for a private, off-market sale if you prefer not to publicize your home sale.
- Facing foreclosure: To avoid worsening your financial situation or credit history, a quick cash sale can be a way to settle debts.
- Inherited property: A cash sale is a straightforward way to handle an inherited property you don’t wish to keep.
- Landlord issues: If you’re tired of managing a rental or dealing with difficult tenants, selling for cash offers a quick exit.
- Elderly downsizing: For seniors moving in with relatives or to care facilities, selling for cash can simplify the transition.
- Out-of-state owner: Living far from the property can make a quick, easy cash sale more appealing.
If you’re a homeowner dealing with tough situations, getting a cash offer from a We Buy Houses company could be a great option! Just remember, it’s a good idea to think of this as just the beginning of your search for solutions.
Pros and cons of house-buying companies in Rochester
When considering selling your Rochester home to a house-buying company, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. The biggest advantages are the speed of the transaction and the ability to sell your house in any condition without needing repairs or preparations. Here’s a quick summary of the key benefits:
Pros
- Speed of sale: These companies can close the deal quickly, often within days, which is ideal for urgent situations.
- No repairs needed: Sell your house as-is, without spending on repairs or renovations, saving time and money.
- Simple process: The sale process is straightforward, with less paperwork and no need for staging or showings.
- Guaranteed sale: Unlike traditional market sales, there’s a high certainty of sale, reducing stress and uncertainty.
On the other hand, the most significant downside is that a house-buying company in Rochester likely will offer you less than market value. This is a critical factor, especially if maximizing profit is your priority. Here are the main drawbacks:
Cons
- Lower offers: Expect to receive an offer below market value, as these companies need to profit from the eventual resale.
- No negotiation: The offered price usually is non-negotiable, giving you less control over the sale price.
- Limited market exposure: Selling directly to a company means missing out on potential higher offers from the open market.
- Potential for scams: It’s crucial to research companies thoroughly, as there are risks of scams or unethical practices.
As you consider these pros and cons, it’s also important to understand the value of your Rochester home and how to vet potential cash buyers. The next section will guide you through this crucial step.
Vet cash buyers and know your home’s worth
When you decide to work with a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Rochester, it’s crucial to remember that the level of integrity and service can vary significantly. Your experience largely will depend on the character and professionalism of the person or group making the offer. Not all cash buyers are created equal; some may offer a more seamless and fair process than others.
Before committing to a cash offer, take the time to vet the company thoroughly. Check online reviews, read testimonials from previous sellers, and research the company’s presence and performance in the Rochester market. This due diligence can help ensure you’re dealing with a reputable buyer. Additionally, always read the buying agreement carefully before signing.
HomeLight suggests you consult with an experienced local agent to get a better idea of what your home might be worth if sold on the open market. Then compare your cash offer. HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing agent in your market. You also can use HomeLight’s Home Value Estimator to get an initial estimate in less than two minutes.
Other options to sell your Rochester home quickly
iBuyers
iBuyers, or instant buyers, use automated valuation models (AVMs) to offer near-instant home value estimates. They provide a mostly online experience, offering all-cash deals typically closer to market value for homes in good condition. The iBuyer process from offer to closing is quick, usually within a few days to two weeks. However, companies like Opendoor and Offerpad charge service fees of 5% to 6%.
Listing with an agent
Listing with a top real estate agent can also result in a fast sale, especially in a seller-friendly market. An agent can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA), which helps determine an appropriate listing price and estimate the time to sell. Many agents offer CMAs, often free.
Partnering with a proven agent can yield the highest selling price and they may even connect you with buyers offering cash closer to market value. If you are interested in exploring the agent option, HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing real estate agent in your area today.
FAQs on Rochester house-buying companies
Most We Buy Houses for Cash companies in Rochester are legitimate businesses. Their services and transaction fees may differ, but the business model has been around for decades. If you use an established group with a track record, you can be fairly confident that it’s legitimate.
That said, as with any financial transaction, it’s a good idea to be on the alert for scams. Always research companies before you sign a contract. Check customer reviews, look at their online presence, verify professional licenses, get a referral if possible, and vet the company on the Better Business Bureau website. Watch for anything that just doesn’t seem right.
Most Rochester We Buy Houses for Cash companies apply the 70% rule, meaning they’ll offer you about 70% of your home’s after-repair value (ARV), minus their estimated repair costs.
Here’s an example of what a simplified formula might look like:
(Your home’s ARV x .70) – repair costs
To see how this might work in a real-world scenario, let’s take a look at an example offer equation. Let’s say your Rochester mid-century modern home could sell for $278,750 after repairs, but it’s going to need $30,000 of work to get there.
($350,000 x .70) – $30,000 = $215,000
In this example, a Rochester We Buy Houses company might offer you about $215,000 for your home.
However, different types of house-buying companies will offer varying amounts for homes. As mentioned previously, iBuyers tend to pay more than We Buy Houses companies because iBuyers look for homes in better condition. An iBuyer might pay you 90% or more of market value while charging a fee for their services.
Accepting an offer from a Rochester We Buy Houses for Cash company can feel like a double-edged sword. On the plus side, you won’t have to spend extra money since they typically handle everything once you accept their offer. However, the downside is that you’ll probably receive less money for your home overall.
Because We Buy Houses for Cash companies tend to focus on distressed homes, they typically have zero fees. Many will even cover your closing costs. In most cases, this means that the cash offer you receive is going to be the price you walk away with at the end of the deal. Of course, it’s always a good idea to ask the company if there are any hidden program fees that might affect your bottom line.
We Buy Houses for Cash in Rochester vs. a top Rochester agent
Another helpful exercise is to compare how a We Buy Houses for Cash company might stack up against working with a real estate agent. Let’s take a look at how various aspects of the sale could play out and compare the potential proceeds.
Aspect of the sale | Sell to a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Rochester | Sell with a top Realtor® in Rochester |
Selling timeline | 7 to 30 days | 84 days average; 40 to attract an offer, 44 to close the loan |
Home preparations | None | Deep clean, declutter, make necessary repairs, landscape, stage home |
Showings | None | 10 to 25 showings average |
Inspections / repairs | None | May need to make additional repairs for the buyer or renegotiate the price |
Appraisal | None | May need to lower your asking price if the appraisal comes in low |
Title search | Cash-for-homes companies often handle title issues | Must clear title before you can sell home |
Financing contingency | None | Mortgaged buyers use a financing contingency that could hold up the deal if the buyer’s loan doesn’t clear |
Agent commission | None | 3% to 5.8% average |
Closing costs | None | 1% to 3% of the home sale price on top of agent commission |
Example net proceeds
Below, we’ve put together one example of how net proceeds may differ between selling a home to a We Buy Houses for Cash company and an agent-assisted sale.
Let’s say your home in Rochester is currently worth about $450,000 and needs about $25,000 in repairs. Once the repairs are completed, the home might be worth about $475,000.
Sell to a We Buy Houses for Cash company in Rochester | Sell with a top Realtor in Rochester | |
Estimated sale price | ($475,000 x .70) – $25,000 = $307,500 | $450,000 |
Market preparations | 0 | $4,500 (1% of sale price) |
Agent commissions | 0 | $13,500 (3% of sale price) |
Closing costs | 0 | $6,750 (1.5%) |
Estimated take-home for seller | $307,500 | $425,250 |
As this example illustrates, financially, it’s usually in your best interest to partner with an experienced real estate agent.
However, net proceeds are not the only consideration when selling a home. What’s best in your situation will depend on the condition of your property, what level of repairs are needed, and your selling objectives. It could be that selling on the open market will be a challenge in your area, or the agent timeline might not fit your immediate needs.
Key takeaways
- Speed and simplicity: Selling your Rochester, Minnesota, home to a cash-for-homes company offers a quick and straightforward process, ideal for urgent situations.
- Know your home’s worth: Always be aware of your property’s estimated market value before you proceed with a cash-offer company.
- As-is sale: You can sell your home in its current condition, avoiding the cost and time associated with repairs and renovations.
- Guaranteed sale: These companies typically provide a guaranteed sale, reducing the uncertainty that comes with traditional market listings.
- Below market offers: Be prepared to receive offers below market value, as these companies aim to profit from the eventual resale.
- No negotiations: The offered price is usually take-it-or-leave-it, with little to no room for negotiation.
- Research is key: Thoroughly vet any cash-for-homes company you consider, checking their reputation and understanding the terms of their offer.
At HomeLight, we’re happy to lend a guiding hand in navigating your real estate journey. Let us help you make an informed and confident decision, whether you’re looking for a no-obligation cash offer through a trusted platform like Simple Sale or seeking to consult with a top Rochester agent.
Header Image Source: (goglik83 / DepositPhotos)