Is A Short Sale For Me?

A short sale is a real estate transaction in which the bank or lender agrees to let the homeowners sell their home for less than their loan balance. In some cases, the sellers don't need to pay back the difference between what they owe and the proceeds of the sale.
 Recent changes in the industry have streamlined the short sale process, making this sort of transaction a popular alternative for both buyers and sellers. Additionally, banks are much more interested in facilitating short sales and avoiding foreclosures that result in placing the properties back on their books.
Who benefits from a short sale?

In many cases, short sales present a proverbial "win-win" situation. Here's how:
Sellers avoid foreclosure and protect their credit from the harder hit of foreclosure.
Buyers receive a good price on the home.
Lenders avoid a costly foreclosure. The potential loss from a foreclosure is typically higher than a loss from a short sale.
 
How it works
Say you owe $200,000 on your home and can no longer make the mortgage payments. One option is to refinance your home and secure a lower payment based on a longer-term or better interest rate. But if your property has lost value due to local market conditions (say it would sell for only $150,000), refinancing isn't feasible. If the bank agrees to a sale at $150,000, it's called a short sale.
 Although short sales have become more common in recent years, banks don't always grant them. In general, they approve short sales in these situations:

  • Seller has a hardship (such as divorce, bankruptcy, unemployment, job relocation).
  •  
  • Seller owes more on the mortgage than the home's current market value.
  •  
  • A mortgage is in or near default status.
  •  
  • Seller has no assets.
  •  
  • However, different banks and lenders have different requirements. So sellers should discuss the short sale option with their lender.
  •  
  • Short sales can present a great deal for buyers. But the process is a bit more complicated than a normal home purchase, and it will take patience.

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Greg Sheeler

Cell: 712.330.1573

Kymm Jones

Cell: 712.320.6737

Aaron Jones

Cell: 712.320.9442

Community Updates

Okoboji Commons

Okoboji Commons in Okoboji

Check out Okoboji's newest urban metro hotel, the Okoboji Commons. Featuring 71 guest rooms, a meeting room that can hold up to 125 people. Conveniently located next to the bike trail, Brooks Golf Course, Okoboji Summer Theatre, and many Okoboji attractions. The hotel grounds are immaculate featuring gas fire pits, a gazebo, a large deck overlooking East Lake, a sand beach with hammocks, fire pits and a new dock to tie up your boat. Check out Okoboji Commons next time you are vacationing in Okoboji, you will not be disappointed!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Okoboji

Bracco

Bracco in Arnolds Park

Bracco World Cafe brings you to the beach, and tropics; you almost forget that you're in Iowa, and not in Mexico! They have the best exotic drink menu anywhere in town. This family owned restaurant has a menu like no other, featuring Island, Asian, and American cuisine. They offer a casual atmosphere for coming right off the boat. Bracco also has a large bar area, complete with sand, and hammock chair beach chairs, to ensure ultimate relaxation.

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Arnolds Park

Deli on the Ave

Deli on the Ave in Spirit Lake

Serving fresh deli sandwiches, grilled paninis, salads, sweet treats, specialty coffee and much more! Feel free to dine in and enjoy the atmosphere this unique deli provides, or order and take out. Ordering online is also an option for take-out and they also do corporate box lunches. Serving gluten free as well! You will definitely want to check out Deli on the Ave!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spirit Lake

Subscribe To Our Newsletter