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Most short sale homes are listed for sale just like any other home on the market. That said, the sales process is much more complex. The Freddie Mac website advises homeowners exploring short sales to work with a qualified real estate professional.

Process

Once a homeowner decided to sell their home, and the lender is willing to allow a short sale, the property is listed, ideally, by a qualified professional with short sale experience. The short sale status must be disclosed to potential buyers.

Offers made on the property must be presented to the lender and accepted by the seller. The real estate agents and real estate attorneys must submit a carefully prepared short sale package. If the lender approves the offer, the escrow closes as usual with no proceeds going to the seller. This process can take several months as mortgage companies tend to need several weeks to evaluate offers and make a decision on whether or not to accept.

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