Selling in this market is hard, and offers promising cash and a fast close are everywhere right now. Some are genuinely useful. Others cost more than they first appear. The difference is usually in the fine print, and that's what this one-page scorecard helps you find.

• Who is actually buying? How to tell a company, a local investor, and a wholesaler apart, and why proof of funds matters.
• The money questions. What to ask about fees, post-inspection price changes, and costs at closing.
• The terms to check. Closing date, cancellation, lease-back details, and who should read the contract.
• Red flags. Four warning signs worth walking away from.
• A side-by-side net comparison. A fill-in grid for a traditional listing, a cash offer, cash now/more later, and sell and stay.