Pensacola Investor Reveals Hybrid Strategy Offering Both Cash and Listing Options to Sellers

Written by:

Steve Marcinuk

Date:

30 Oct 2025

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Pensacola-based real estate investor Mike Hamby says his dual role as both cash buyer and licensed agent allows him to offer sellers a more transparent choice, though most still opt for speed over maximum price in today’s market.

“What I do is different because I’m also a real estate agent. I present both options to sellers,” explains Hamby, owner of Hamby Housing. “Here’s my cash price if you want to close in 30 days or less. Or if you want to make more money, I can represent you as a real estate agent, and I would suggest a list price of X amount, and it’s usually about 20% higher.”

According to Hamby, despite the potential for higher returns through a traditional listing, approximately 60-70% of sellers still choose the cash offer route. He attributes this to various forms of distress that prompt sellers to prioritize speed and certainty over maximum price.

“Most people that I’m marketing to, we’re reaching out to them because of some kind of distress or signal that has become public knowledge,” Hamby says. “If there’s any kind of lien or foreclosure tax lien, we’re sending them marketing.”

Hamby notes he’s particularly focused on two growing segments: inherited properties and homes with code enforcement liens. These situations often involve out-of-state owners who prefer a quick cash settlement over a prolonged traditional sale process.

While direct marketing to distressed properties remains core to his business, Hamby says referrals from other real estate agents have become an increasingly important source of deals since joining Keller Williams six months ago.

“The leadership has been really pivotal in helping push my name out there,” Hamby explains. “Now, a lot of the leads I get are from other agents that come across these beat-up houses, and they just want to see what I can do.”

Despite operating in what many consider a crowded “we buy houses” space, Hamby maintains his transparent dual-option approach and growing network of professional referrals helps him stand out while serving sellers’ best interests.

“At the end of the day, I just want to present all options to them and let them make the best decision for their family,” Hamby concludes.