When a lender and a homeowner agree to release a mortgage for an amount less than what's owed on a house, it's called a short sale.
Can I get a bargain on a short sale?
Every now and then a good deal will come along. Many people hear the words "short sale" and routinely think of a seller that is insolvent and must sell their house fast to prevent further financial problems. This is sometimes the case and can be an opportunity for a buyer to make the most of another's misfortune. On the other hand, a lender may consider a short sale even if the seller isn't delinquent with their payments, but property values have declined. In these cases the discounted price may in fact be consistent with current market values rather than below.
Are you ready to buy a short sale property?
Always do your homework before making any offers. Using an experienced real estate agent from Blair County Homes to support your research of a property will help you make knowledgeable decisions. We can help learn to whom the property is titled, the amount owed to the lender, and whether or not a foreclosure notice has been filed. Finding this info can help you determine how much to offer.
Get a real estate agent with short sale knowledge. The real estate agents at Blair County Homes can help expedite the transaction and make certain you're protected. Don't permit inexperience to hinder the closing process. Put our experience and knowledge to work in your favor.
Even in the best of situations and with an experienced real estate agent, buying a short sale property will probably take longer than a typical real estate transaction. Know that a majority of 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. In most cases your offer will be seen by a committee for approval which will add time - sometimes even 2 to 3 months.
Home warranties, buyer credits and allowances, and closing cost concessions are normally not up for negotiation when buying a short sale. The lender will be selling the property just the way it is which means the lender will not be paying for repairs. Always reserve the right to perform inspections for pests, HVAC, electrical, and other critical areas. At Blair County Homes, when we write an offer, we're looking out for your interests first and will always suggest that you make your offer contingent upon the outcome of the inspections.
When it is time to buy, whether it's a short sale or a typical home sale, Blair County Homes is here to help. Utilize our experience and knowledge of real estate to be certain that you're getting a fair deal and protect yourself during the complete transaction.
Herbert (Herb) Dempsie 300 Orchard Ave Altoona PA 16602 Cell: 814-696-9714 Email: Herb@HerbDempsie.com License Number RS310343
Howard Hanna Johnston Realty 300 Orchard Ave Altoona Pa 16602 Office: 814-946-8682