Looking to purchase a short sale?
Are short sales bargains?
Every now and then a good deal will come along. Most people hear the phrase "short sale" and routinely think of a seller that is in financial trouble and must sell their house fast to avert further financial problems. This is at times the case and can be an opportunity for a buyer to make the most of another's misfortune. Alternatively, a lender may consider a short sale even if the seller isn't delinquent with their payments, but property values have declined. In cases such as these the "bargain" price may in fact be closer to true market values rather than below.
How do I buy a short sale?
- Always do your research before making any offers. Using a qualified real estate agent from Teddy Castro Group - NeXGen Real Estate to support your research of a property will help you make informed decisions. We can help find out to whom the property is titled, how much is owed to the lender, and whether or not a foreclosure notice has been filed. Finding this data can help you make a decision about how much to offer.
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Hire a real estate agent with short sale knowledge. Teddy Castro Group - NeXGen Real Estate can assist you in expediting the transaction and ensure that you're protected. Don't let inexperience impede the closing process. Put my experience and knowledge to work in your favor.
- Even with an experienced real estate agent and under the best of situations, buying a short sale property will generally take longer than a typical real estate transaction. Be aware that most short sales will not close in less than 30 days. Remember that you're not only having to satisfy the seller, but the lender must also agree to the sale terms. It's not uncommon that your offer will be presented to a committee to approve, which will add time - sometimes even 2 to 3 months.
- Home protection warranties, buyer credits and allowances, and closing cost concessions are typically not negotiable when dealing with a short sale. The lender will be selling the property just the way it is which means the lender isn't going to pay for repairs. Be sure to reserve the right to have the property inspected for pests, HVAC, electrical, and other critical areas. At Teddy Castro Group - NeXGen Real Estate, when I write an offer, I'm looking out for your interests first and foremost and will always suggest that you make your offer contingent upon the outcome of the inspections.