If you're considering selling your home quickly for cash in San Diego, Gordon Buys Homes often comes up as a local option. Founded in 2012 by Tim Gordon, this family-owned company under Gordon Enterprises specializes in buying properties "as-is" without fees, commissions, or lengthy closings. With a focus on distressed homes, foreclosures, inherited properties, and rentals with tenant issues, they promise offers within 24-72 hours and closings in as little as 7 days.
But is Gordon Buys Homes legit and worth it? In this review, we'll dive into real customer experiences, pros and cons, how the process works, and alternatives based on verified data from Google, BBB, and industry analyses. As a real estate expert with over a decade analyzing cash buyers, I've evaluated hundreds of companies like this one—prioritizing transparency to help you decide if it's the right fit.
What Is Gordon Buys Homes and How Does It Work?
Gordon Buys Homes operates primarily in Southern California, including San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. They target single-family homes, condos, and multi-unit rentals that need repairs or have complicating factors, aiming for an 8-10% profit margin after renovations.
The process is straightforward:
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Submit Details: Fill out their online form with your property address, condition, and contact info.
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Walkthrough and Offer: Tim Gordon or a team member visits within 3 days and provides a non-contingent cash offer (typically 80-85% of after-repair value, higher than the industry average of 50-70%).
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Close on Your Timeline: Accept the offer, enter escrow (1-2 weeks for due diligence like title checks), and close in 7-10 days. They cover closing costs, repairs, and no agent fees—sellers only pay a 0.11% transfer tax.
This model appeals to sellers avoiding traditional listings, but offers are below full market value to account for risks and repairs. Tim Gordon, a licensed real estate agent, can also list your home traditionally if cash isn't ideal.
Gordon Buys Homes Ratings and Reviews
Gordon Buys Homes boasts strong online feedback, with over 100 reviews across platforms. Their Google rating stands at 4.8/5 from 96+ reviews, earning top 5% marks for customer satisfaction among similar cash buyers. The BBB gives an A+ rating (unaccredited, 0 complaints), and they respond to 94% of reviews, showing commitment to reputation.
Positive Reviews: What Sellers Love
Most praise Tim Gordon's professionalism, empathy, and fair offers. Common themes include quick responses, stress-free closings, and higher-than-expected payouts for fixer-uppers.
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Dragan V. (2025, Google): "Tim was professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. He made the transaction smooth—whatever your real estate needs, Tim has you covered."
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Carol L. (2025, Google): "Tim explained everything transparently and accommodated my needs. Closing was smooth like a hot knife through butter—best price and hassle-free."
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Garrin S. (2021, Google): "Tim was empathetic during a tough time with squatters. He offered exactly what I wanted, no contingencies, and closed ahead of schedule."
92% of reviewers would recommend them, with recent trends showing 5.0 averages—up from 4.7 historically. Sellers highlight the "stay in place" option (90% upfront, 10% held until vacating) and no hidden fees.
Negative Reviews and Complaints
Complaints are rare (only one substantial on Google), but they exist:
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Shayna V. (2021, Google): Offer changed after inspection revealed sewer damage under the foundation, leading to withdrawal. Tim responded: "We withdrew due to severe issues not disclosed upfront."
No major BBB complaints, but some note stricter criteria (e.g., no structural issues or low-marketability locations). Yelp has no reviews, which is a gap compared to Google's volume. Overall, 4.8 weighted average signals reliability, but always get multiple offers.
Pros and Cons of Gordon Buys Homes
Pros
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Above-Average Offers: 80-85% of market value (vs. 50-70% industry standard), thanks to efficient repairs (e.g., $90K vs. $150K for homeowners).
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No Fees or Hassles: Covers repairs, closing costs; flexible timelines.
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Personalized Service: Direct access to owner Tim Gordon, a licensed agent with 10+ years experience.
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Proven Track Record: Active since 2012, $30M+ in transactions, top-rated for distressed sales.
Cons
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Below Full Market Value: Still 15-20% less than open-market sales.
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Limited Scope: Won't buy structurally unsound homes or those in poor locations; Southern CA only.
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Negotiation Room: Offers are firm; one buyer means less bargaining power.
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Rare Inspection Changes: As in the 2021 complaint, due diligence can adjust offers.
Is Gordon Buys Homes Legit?
Yes—very. With 10+ years verified activity, a professional website featuring team bios (Tim and Sara Gordon), video testimonials, and over 100 five-star reviews, they meet all credibility benchmarks. No scams reported; they're transparent about the process and provide proof-of-funds. As a licensed agent, Tim adds legitimacy. However, compare offers via marketplaces to avoid lowballs.
Gordon Buys Homes vs. Competitors
Gordon edges out offers for distressed properties but lacks Opendoor's speed for pristine homes. For best results, use Clever Offers for competing bids.
Is Selling to Gordon Buys Homes Worth It?
For urgent sales of as-is homes in Southern CA, yes—especially if speed trumps max price. Their 4.8 rating and fair offers make them a solid choice over generic flippers. But if your home is in good shape, list traditionally or use an iBuyer for 10-20% more.
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