We Buy Houses in Reston, Fairfax County – Should You Consider It?
Thinking of selling your home in Reston, Fairfax County, Virginia? One option you may see is “We Buy Houses” — companies that purchase homes quickly, often for cash. Before you decide whether that’s the right move, let’s walk through what that means, what it costs to sell the traditional way, and how our 1.5% full-service listing program could save you thousands.
What “We Buy Houses” Means
- They often make cash offers, closing in days or a few weeks.
- Fewer inspections, fewer repairs, or you might be asked to accept the home “as is.”
- Less hassle — little staging, fewer showings.
But there are trade-offs:
- Cash offers are often well below market value.
- Less time for marketing can mean fewer buyers bidding up the price.
- You still incur costs when you sell — just different ones.
The Traditional Selling Costs in Reston, Fairfax County
If you list with a Realtor in Reston or Fairfax County, here are common costs to expect:
| Cost Component | Typical Rate / Amount |
|---|---|
| Realtor Commission | About 5–6% of the sale price, split between listing & buyer’s agent. (thejamilbrothers.com) |
| Closing Costs & Transfer Taxes | Usually 2–4% extra. Includes taxes, title, recording fees, HOA dues. (explorevahomes.com) |
| Preparation Costs | Repairs, staging, landscaping, cleaning. Varies widely by property. |
| Time on Market | Homes often take weeks to go pending. More showings & prep time. (zillow.com) |
Local Stats to Know (2025)
- Median sale price in Fairfax County ≈ $760,000 (redfin.com)
- Home values up ~4–5% YoY (redfin.com)
- Homes sell close to list price, ~99% of list on average. (marketminute.longandfoster.com)
On a $760,000 Reston home:
- Commission (5.5%) ≈ $41,800
- Closing costs (3%) ≈ $22,800
- Prep = varies, often several thousand
Total: $60,000–$70,000+ in costs with traditional 6% listing.
How “We Buy Houses” Compares
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Fast closing (days or weeks) | Offer lower than market |
| Minimal repairs/staging | Less buyer competition |
| Simpler process | No bidding wars to push price up |
The 6% vs 1.5% Listing Comparison
| Scenario | Home Price | Commission | Other Costs | Net to Seller* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional (~6%) | $760,000 | ~$45,600 | ~$22,800 + prep | ~$691,000 – prep |
| Lofty’s 1.5% Program | $760,000 | ~$11,400 | same (~$22,800 + prep) | ~$725,800 – prep |
*Excludes prep. Seller saves ~$30,000+ in commission vs. 6%.
Save on Selling Your Fairfax Home
Get a free net proceeds estimate with our 1.5% Full-Service Program. See how much you can save.
Free Net Sheet CalculatorFAQs
Q: How does Lofty’s 1.5% listing fee compare to “We Buy Houses”?
A: Lofty gives MLS exposure, marketing, and negotiation — but for only 1.5% listing fee. “We Buy Houses” skips showings but offers below market.
Q: Are commissions negotiable in Virginia?
A: Yes. Average is ~5.7%, but negotiable. Our program reduces listing fees to 1.5%. (listwithclever.com)
Q: What other selling costs should I expect?
A: Closing costs (title, taxes, fees), prep, prorated taxes, HOA dues, and holding costs.
Important Information & Disclosures
Last updated: September 15, 2025 – Fairfax County, Virginia
“1.5% listing service” refers only to the listing-side brokerage fee; buyer-broker pay (if any), admin fees, and third-party charges (title, HOA, lender, inspections, etc.) are separate. Minimums may apply.
Figures reflect common scenarios as of Aug 2025 and may change. No guarantee of proceeds.
Commissions are negotiable. 1.5% program details in the written agreement.
Information provided "as-is" and may contain errors. Contact us for corrections.
No agency is created until a written agreement is signed.
We comply with the Fair Housing Act. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Advertising by Samson Properties, Chantilly, VA. Team: The Jamil Brothers Realty Group.
Not intended to solicit homeowners under contract with another broker.
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