She Listed Twice. Both Deals Died. Then She Called Spencer Buys Houses.

Selling a home through the traditional real estate market sounds simple—hire an agent, list the property, accept an offer, and close. But for many Memphis homeowners, the process doesn't always go according to plan. Financing delays, inspection issues, and appraisal problems can cause contracts to fall apart, leaving sellers frustrated and back at square one.

This real-life Whitehaven case study shows how one homeowner experienced two failed sales before turning to Spencer Buys Houses for a faster, more predictable solution.

The Property​

The home was located in the Whitehaven neighborhood of Memphis (ZIP code 38116). It was a well-maintained property with plenty of potential, and the homeowner expected that selling through a traditional real estate agent would produce the highest return.

Unfortunately, the transaction became much more complicated than expected.

The First Contract Fell Apart​

After listing the property, the seller accepted an offer from a buyer using FHA financing.

Everything appeared to be moving toward closing until the required inspection identified an aging HVAC system. The lender required the system to be replaced before approving the loan.

The seller wasn't prepared to spend thousands of dollars on a new HVAC unit just to satisfy the buyer's financing requirements. As a result, the first contract was cancelled.

The Second Buyer Couldn't Close​

Several weeks later, another buyer submitted an offer using conventional financing.

This time the inspection process went smoothly, but the lender's appraisal created another obstacle. The property appraised below the agreed purchase price, creating an appraisal gap.

The buyer declined to pay the difference, and the seller wasn't willing to reduce the price enough to satisfy the lender.

After spending approximately 74 days on the market, the second contract also collapsed.

The Hidden Cost of Waiting​

Every additional week the home remained unsold continued to cost the homeowner money.

Expenses included:

  • Property taxes
  • Homeowners insurance
  • Utility bills
  • Lawn maintenance
  • Ongoing property upkeep
While many sellers focus only on the purchase price, these carrying costs continue to reduce the amount they ultimately receive.

Calling Spencer Buys Houses​

After two failed contracts, the homeowner decided to explore another option.

Instead of listing again, she contacted Spencer Buys Houses for a direct cash offer.

The property was evaluated in its current condition, including the aging HVAC system and other deferred maintenance. Because the purchase didn't rely on bank financing, there were no lender-required repairs, appraisal contingencies, or underwriting delays.

A firm cash offer was presented, and the seller accepted.

Closing in Just 11 Days​

From the initial phone call to closing, the entire transaction took only 11 days.

There were:

  • No real estate commissions
  • No repair requirements
  • No appraisal delays
  • No financing contingencies
  • No additional months of carrying costs
Most importantly, the homeowner ultimately netted approximately $10,000 more than she would have received from the previous traditional transactions after accounting for commissions, repair costs, concessions, and ongoing expenses.

Lessons for Memphis Homeowners​

This case demonstrates that the highest purchase price doesn't always produce the highest profit.

Traditional sales can be delayed or cancelled because of:

  • FHA repair requirements
  • Low appraisals
  • Financing denials
  • Inspection negotiations
  • Mortgage underwriting delays
For homeowners dealing with older properties, inherited homes, vacant houses, landlord situations, or major repairs, a direct cash sale may provide greater certainty and a stronger overall financial outcome.

Why Sellers Choose Spencer Buys Houses​

Homeowners throughout Memphis choose Spencer Buys Houses because the company offers:

  • Cash offers within 24–48 hours
  • Purchases in any condition
  • No repairs or cleaning required
  • No commissions or hidden fees
  • Flexible closing dates
  • Closings in as little as 7–14 days
  • Local Memphis experience backed by hundreds of completed transactions

About the Author​

Spencer Shadrach is the founder of Spencer Buys Houses, a Memphis-based real estate investment company that has purchased more than 400 homes throughout Shelby County and the Mid-South. With over 10 years of experience, Spencer specializes in helping homeowners sell quickly through transparent cash offers, fast closings, and a straightforward selling process.

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Read More- https://blog.spencerbuyshouses.com/blog/she-listed-twice-both-deals-died-memphis/

 
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