Selling a Home with a Horse Track? Sure. Buyer Showing Up with a Bag of Cash? Now That’s a Plot Twist

Many years ago, I had a listing in Lexington, Oklahoma that had equestrian facilities and a horse racing track—starting gates included. I sold it to a buyer who received one of my “Just Listed” postcards (yes, those still work!). Before showing the property, I made sure he had proof of funds since he was paying in cash. The process went smoothly, and we eventually headed to closing.

 

I arrived first, and about 10 minutes later, he walked in—struggling with a massive duffle bag. Naturally, I offered to help. The thing was heavy.

 

Me: “What’s in the bag?”

Him: Confused look “You told me to bring cash.”

 

…My eyes nearly popped out of my head when he unzipped the bag. Yep. $650,000 in cold, hard cash right there in front of me.

 

I almost laughed but managed to explain: “No, no—you need a certified check to close on the house!”

 

He got frustrated and left to get one. Meanwhile, my mind was racing (pun intended), thinking about the property he was buying—with a full horse track. I started asking myself what exactly does this guy REALLY do for a living?

 

About 45 minutes later, he came back—with the check AND the bag still full of cash.

 

Lesson learned: Next time, specify 'cash buyer' means bank transfer, not a scene from Narcos.