Selecting An Investor?

I am considering selling my home to an investor. How would I find an investor to sell the home to, what should I research prior to selecting an investor? I have seen signs that read, I buy houses. Call me.
Before I make the phone call, what should I know to protect my investment?
Thanks.

Well, think of why you want to sell your house to an investor - and what their motive is. Basically, they want the house at the lowest possible price, so that they can rent it out, or fix it up and sell it at a quick profit.

Treat an investor like any other buyer. They should have their credit in hand, a healthy deposit, and means to complete their financing. You should have some professional appraisals done now so that you know what the home should sell for - however, don't expect top dollar from an investor - they expect to make the profit.

Make sure that the closing is in a short period of time (30 days or less) and that you have a good contract on your paper (which means don't let the investor convince you to "use" his contract). Read the entire contract and understand every clause. Make sure you get to keep the deposit if they fail to close, and can't put a lien on your property, which would disable you from putting it back on the market.

Many real estate agents also buy property on the side, you might want approach some of the larger (Century 21) type agents and get their take on it.

The first thing to know is that the investor will not pay anywhere near what you want or, perhaps need. You also need to know that there is not a good chance that they will want to part with a lot of cash to do the deal. Do not sign anything, period.
If you should sign a deed without realizing it, your investment could be gone, very quick!

Investors are looking for bargains - plain and simple. They are not willing to pay anywhere near fair market value. If you are offering your home at a substantial discount from fair market value, you could have a deal.

To protect your investment, know what the value is. Don't rely on Zillow or tax assessed value, know your market.

If you are going to work with an investor without a Realtor, be sure to have the contract reviewed by a RE attorney. There are alot of sharks in the waters looking to prey on those in financial diffculty.