Seller financing can be extremely beneficial to both parties. However, just like any other type of financing, it can have drawbacks.
So what are the pros and cons of seller financing?
Pros of Seller Financing
Typically, with seller financing, in the two parties negotiate everything on their own – and that means both parties can come up with favorable terms.
Some of the pros include:
- Buyers can qualify for seller financing when they aren’t able to qualify for traditional financing
- The closing process is typically faster and costs less
- The buyer and seller can agree on any down payment
- Seller financing can make a home stand out in a crowded market
- Often, the home is sold “as-is”
- You can negotiate any interest rate
- If the buyer doesn’t pay, the seller keeps the down payment and gets the house back (naturally, that only benefits the seller)
- The seller can sell the promissory note to an investor, which gives the cellar a lump sum payment
Cons of Seller Financing
As with any other type of financing, seller financing can have its drawbacks. Some of those drawbacks may include:
- Sellers generally need to own the home “free and clear”
- Buyers could default and walk away from the home
- If buyers walk away from home, you could incur steep repair costs
- Taxes can be complicated
- The interest rate may be high
- Many sellers run credit checks, which means you could be turned down if you appear to be a credit risk
- Buyers need to make sure they can pay the balloon payment – if one is required – when the time comes
Are You Selling a Home in North Florida?
If you are selling a home or property in North Florida, regardless of what type of financing you are offering, we can help you.
Call us at 386-243-0124 or get in touch with us online.
We can help you determine what your home or property is worth, and we’ll help you sell your home faster using our proven strategies. (While you’re here, download our free home selling guide – it’s packed with useful tips.)