If you’re a Maryland homeowner with a house that needs significant repairs, you’ve likely seen the bright yellow signs that read, “We Buy Ugly Houses®,” promising a quick, no-hassle sale for your home, no matter its condition.
While a national franchise offers the reassurance of a big, recognizable brand, a local alternative like Shane Denison’s We Buy Ugly Maryland Homes provides something different.
With We Buy Ugly Maryland Homes, you get local expertise, a more personal process, and a better understanding of what your property is worth.
Understanding how these two options compare can help you make a confident decision when it’s time to sell.
This guide provides a direct comparison between We Buy Ugly Houses® and Shane Denison’s We Buy Ugly Maryland Homes, outlining the pros and cons of each to help you choose the best option for selling your property in Maryland.
We Buy Ugly Houses®, operated by HomeVestors, is one of the largest cash home-buying franchises in the country.
Their pitch is simple—they buy homes in any condition, pay cash, and close quickly. This offers stressed homeowners a way out without the hassle of repairs, listings, or showings.
Speed and Convenience
If you need help selling a house in Maryland fast, you can get a no-obligation cash offer within 24 to 48 hours and close in as little as three weeks. The “as-is” purchase means no repairs, cleaning, or staging are needed.
Guaranteed Offer
Cash offers aren’t dependent on financing, appraisals, or lender approval, so they’re less likely to fall through.
No Commissions
Sellers avoid agent commissions and some closing costs, keeping the process streamlined.
Brand Recognition
The company has a strong national presence and reputation, which can make sellers feel secure that they’re dealing with a legitimate buyer.
Lowball Offers
Offers are often 30% below market value, as investors typically aim to pay about 70% of a property’s after-repair value (ARV) minus expenses.
Inconsistent Service
Because it’s a franchise model, experiences vary. Some locations have excellent reputations, while others have negative reviews citing aggressive tactics or last-minute renegotiations.
Lack of Control
The seller may feel rushed or pressured to accept a lower offer, and re-negotiations after an inspection are not uncommon.
Shane Denison’s We Buy Ugly Maryland Homes offers the same core benefit — a fast, as-is sale — but with a local touch.
Instead of working with a franchisee who may live several states away, you’re working with someone who understands the nuances of Maryland’s neighborhoods, property values, and housing trends.
Local Expertise
Shane has in-depth knowledge of the Maryland real estate market, from Baltimore rowhomes to suburban houses in Montgomery County. This often leads to a more accurate and potentially higher cash offer.
More Personalized Service
Working with a local buyer often means dealing with one point of contact from start to finish, leading to smoother communication and a more human experience.
Stronger Community Ties
Local investors are more likely to reinvest in the community, turning distressed properties into valuable assets instead of simply flipping for maximum profit.
Flexibility
Need more time to move? Want to leave behind unwanted items? Local buyers are usually more willing to adjust terms and timelines to fit your situation.
Brand Recognition
A smaller company may not carry the same level of name recognition, so sellers need to do their due diligence before signing anything.
Scalability
A local buyer may have limits on how many properties they can take on at once — though for most homeowners, this is not a major obstacle.
Selling a property can be a complex process with multiple steps involved. To help you navigate this journey successfully, here’s a practical home selling guide:
Selling a house in Maryland that needs work doesn’t have to be stressful. Remember, we buy ugly houses, Maryland!
National franchises like We Buy Ugly Houses® offer speed and certainty, but at a price. Local buyers like Shane Denison’s We Buy Ugly Maryland Homes often provide a more personalized, transparent experience and may offer closer-to-market pricing.
If you’re a Maryland homeowner and you’re planning to sell your property, feel free to reach out using this link.
They make a cash offer after a quick walkthrough and typically close within three weeks — no repairs needed.
National buyers rely on a franchise model and have strong brand recognition but often make lower offers. Local buyers may provide better pricing, more flexibility, and a more personal process.
Fairness depends on your priorities. You won’t get top market value, but you are trading price for speed and convenience.
A CMA is a report prepared by a real estate professional comparing your home to similar recently sold properties to estimate its fair market value.
Most cash buyers don’t charge commissions, but you should still confirm what closing costs you’ll be responsible for.
You save time, money, and stress by avoiding repairs, cleaning, and showings.
Check online reviews, ask for references, and confirm they can provide proof of funds before signing a contract.