I have had some recent experiences that have inspired me to write a blog about, “The truth”. This is NOT a class, and I am a licensed Realtor, but NOT a Certified Specialist. This is basically an ABC’s for Buyers and Sellers. This is also based on MY experience and professional opinion. I will cover Sellers first, because then Buyers will understand the process a little better.
What is a Short Sale? Basic definition is a Short Sale is when a home is being sold “short” of the liens and mortgages that is owed on it.
SELLERS: When entertaining the idea of selling your home as a Short Sale, Pahleeeeze…speak with a few Realtors (preferably a Realtor that is a Certified Specialist). Make sure they KNOW what they are talking about. Some clues…If they make sense to you, that means through the process, communication will be good. That is SUPER important! A Realtor that knows Short Sales, will also more than likely advise you to also speak with your CPA and or Attorney (to make sure this is the right decision for you). A Short Sale does not necessarily ruin your credit. It actually depends on each situation. A Certified Specialist can give you a really good idea of all of your options. If a Realtor uses a “Mitigation Company” be hesitant (MY OPINION ONLY!). Here’s why…a knowledgeable Realtor and Title company, can handle a Short Sale on their own. A Mitigation company charges a fee, which will NOT be paid by you (the Seller), or the BANK. Therefor it must be paid either by the Realtors or the buyer. This makes your property a bit less appetizing. I personally will list one, but will partner with an Agent that is a Cert. Short Sale Specialist.
BUYERS: The MOST important thing for you to know about Short Sales…”PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE”. If you are in a rush to buy a home, then this is NOT an option for you. There are so many hoops for the Listing Agent to go through, it is a time consuming process. The second most important…A Short Sale in no way means…Garage Sale. A Realtor that knows what they’re doing, has priced the property to reflect closely what the Bank SHOULD approve. When making an offer, my opinion is to stay close to the asking price. The alternative is to make a low ball offer, wait a potential 4 months to get a “No”. You have then wasted 4 months of your life, that you can no longer get back. If you are ready to make a commitment to a home, and “feel that great love”, then the process is worth the wait. Lastly…be aware that you MAY be asked to pay a “mitigation fee” at closing. Make sure your Realtor makes you aware of that early on.
Well…that’s the “quick and dirty” of it. I may come back to add to this. I hope it somewhat helped or clarified some things.
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