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Ready to purchase a short sale?

Can I get a bargain on a short sale?

Sometimes. Most people hear the phrase "short sale" and routinely think of a seller that is in financial trouble and must sell their home quickly to avoid further financial problems. This is at times the case and can be an opportunity for a buyer to do well from another's misfortune. Alternatively, a lender may consider a short sale even if the seller is current with their mortgage, but property values have declined. In these instances the "bargain" price may in fact be in line with actual market values, not below.

How do I buy a short sale?

• Before you make any purchase offers, do your research. Using a qualified real estate professional from Unicasa International USA Realty to support your research of a property can help you make informed decisions. We can help reveal to whom the property is titled, the amount owed to the lender, and whether or not a foreclosure notice has been filed. Finding these facts can help you determine how much to offer.

• Hire an agent with short sale expertise. Unicasa International USA Realty can assist you in expediting the transaction and ensure that you're protected. Don't allow inexperience to impede the closing process. Let my experience and knowledge work in your favor.

• Even with an experienced real estate agent and under the best circumstances, buying a short sale property will usually take longer than a typical real estate transaction. Be informed that most short sales will not close in the customary 30 days or less. Remember that you're not only having to satisfy the seller, but the lender must also agree to the sale terms. A lot of the time your offer will be sent to a committee to approve, which will add time - sometimes even 2 to 3 months.
• Home protection plans, buyer credits and allowances, and closing cost concessions are generally not negotiable when working with a short sale. The lender will be selling the property "as is" which means the lender isn't going to pay for repairs. Make sure to reserve the right to have the property inspected for pests, HVAC, electrical, and other critical areas. At Unicasa International USA Realty, when I write an offer, I will be looking out for your interests first and will always recommend that you make your offer contingent upon the outcome of the inspections.