Saturday, December 12, 2009

A Phoenix Short Sale is a Real Option For Homeowners Who Find Themselves Under Water




If you live in the Phoenix Arizona area and have fallen on hard times, you may find yourself in a situation where you must sell your home. A short sale is a solution for many who meet the qualifications. You will need a reputable realtor with experience in short sales to help you negotiate the process. They will also do their best to quickly find a buyer for your home, so that you can get out from under the financial stress.

While the process can get lengthy and often does, it will go much more smoothly if you choose an experienced certified in short sales real estate agent that thoroughly understands the process. It is their job to find a buyer for your home, and a reliable agent will handle all of the details they possibly can for you. With the declining economy and tremendous job loss currently being experienced, many homeowners now find that they simply cannot pay their mortgage any longer. If you live in Phoenix and this describes you, learn more about the short sale process.

How does the process work? Here is a basic explanation:

1. In order to choose a short sale, you must qualify. Qualifying may include proving that the market value of your home has dropped. In addition, some lenders will consider this option if your mortgage is in or near default. You should also be ready to prove that you have fallen on hard times, and this does not mean spending your money foolishly. An example of a hardship would be: Loss of employment, death, divorce, unexpected medical bills, bankruptcy
2. You, as the seller, sign a listing agreement with a realtor who is experienced in the short sale process. The agent should then attempt to find a buyer who will make an offer for less than the balance of the mortgage.
3. As the seller, you will be responsible for accepting the offer of the buyer.
4. It is then up to your lender to decide if they are willing to accept the buyers offer.
5. The lender either accepts or declines the offer. If accepted, the lender will release the lien and you, as the seller, will give the buyer the deed.

If you do consider a short sale for your Phoenix home, be aware that your credit will be affected, but it will not be completely ruined as it would with foreclosure. With a short sale, you can generally purchase another home within 18 months to two years, whereas a foreclosure makes it nearly impossible to buy another home for about 5 to 7 years. Foreclosure is also embarrassing to many people, so taking this route helps you avoid the stigma.

Does a short sale sound like a good solution for your problems? Contact a reputable and experienced Phoenix realtor, who can explain the process in detail and help you make an informed decision.

Maureen Karpinski
Find your Phoenix Arizona Property at Cactus Country Arizona Homes & Properties

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