Posted on February the 14th, 2023.

What does a short-sale mean in Real Estate?

In real estate, a short sale is a transaction in which a property is sold for less than the outstanding balance of the mortgage or other liens against the property. The lender or lenders involved agree to accept the sale proceeds as full payment of the outstanding debt, and the borrower is typically released from any further liability for the remaining amount owed.

Short sales are typically used as a way to avoid foreclosure, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process for lenders and borrowers alike. The process for a short sale in real estate can be complex and involves the cooperation of multiple parties, including the property owner, the lender or lenders, and any other lien-holders on the property.

To initiate a short sale, the property owner typically needs to demonstrate financial hardship and provide evidence that they are unable to continue making payments on the mortgage or other liens. The lender will need to approve the short sale and may require a detailed financial statement and other documentation.

Once a short sale is approved, the property is listed for sale, and any offers that are received are subject to the lender's approval. If an offer is accepted, the lender will generally require that the sale close within a specific time frame, and the borrower may be required to sign a promissory note to pay any remaining balance owed.

Short sales can be a complicated process, and it's important for buyers and sellers to work with experienced real estate professionals who are familiar with the process and can help navigate the potential challenges.