Zillow Offer hard to refuse

[K Sue Dorsett]

Anyone have experience selling to Zillow? Out of curiosity, we got a Zillow quote and then after they sent their inspector to the home, they surprisingly sent an offer and a sales contract that would net us more than if we list with a realtor! Their market value was $5000-$10000 more than local realtors we interviewed would list the house for. Zillow’s  sales fee was only .1%; vs. a realtor at 5%. Their list of repairs was less than $500; whereas we have to do painting, repairs, cleaning and landscaping that will cost thousands. They offered net cash of $2000 more than the list price suggested by two realtors. Is there a catch? Because our house would have to have a bidding war, cash buyer paying $35000 - $40000 more than list price with no concessions from us and a quick closing to net what Zillow is offering.  Any thoughts?