Guide
How to Verify a Cash Home Buyer
Public records let you check almost any buyer's claims in about ten minutes.
Short answer
Look up the buyer's recorded purchases by parcel in the county record, confirm the legal entity with the Secretary of State, and call the title company directly.
Step 1: Check the county record
In Cuyahoga County, the Fiscal Office MyPlace portal shows the transfer history for every parcel, including the deed type, transfer date, and the grantee — the buying entity. If a buyer claims dozens of purchases, that record should show them.
Step 2: Confirm the entity exists
Search the legal business name in the business registry of the state where the company is formed. Confirm the name on the purchase agreement matches the registered entity exactly.
Step 3: Call the title company
A title or escrow company can confirm that they have worked with the buyer. Funds and documents should always move through the closing company, never directly between you and the buyer.
Step 4: Ask for proof of funds
A proof-of-funds letter or bank statement, with account numbers redacted, shows the buyer can complete the purchase. Never accept a screenshot with no institution name.
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