Best Atlanta Real Estate

Short Sales Answers: What is a Short Sale? (FAQ#1)

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Wed, 30 May 2012 20:14:07 -0700

As an Atlanta short sale specialist, the most frequent question I hear is, “What is a short sale?” A short sale is a complicated transaction, both to explain and also to execute, but I find the following four-part answer usually clears things up:

First, a short sale is the sale of a home for less than the amount still owed on the existing mortgage. The short sale, therefore, can only be completed through negotiation with the existing lender or lenders to allow the sale to occur. Each lender must agree to settle for a lesser amount than what is owed them.

Second, a short sale is a foreclosure-prevention solution for the seller. Say a seller can no longer afford the mortgage payments, perhaps because the interest has reset and resulted in a higher payment, or may there was a loss of income or some unforeseen financial hardship, or maybe they need to relocate to another city – there can be any number of legitimate reasons why a person would need to short sell their home. In these cases, they can approach their lender about allowing a short sale. They will negotiate with the lender (or lenders) to sell the property for less than what is owed rather than walking away from the debt and allowing foreclosure to occur. In a best case scenario, the lender(s) may also agree in writing that the net revenue of the sale results in a full release of lien, and allows the debt to be recorded as “settled as agreed".

Third, a short sale is a loss mitigation solution for the lender. Contrary to popular belief, lenders do not want to own real property; they simply want to recapture s much of their original investment as possible. Many distressed homeowners have simply walked away from their properties when their mortgage became unmanageable and they did not know their options. Lenders also benefit, because a short sale is almost always more cost-effective than a foreclosure. Short sales allow lenders to limit their losses.

Fourth, a short sale is a "win" for all involved. By the nature of the transaction, no one is going to make a profit on the short sale. But the good news is that after a successful short sale, the lenders avoid another foreclosure, the community avoids another blighted property standing empty, and the home owner is clear of the mortgage debt and able to move on.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Time to Hit the Road! - SUMMER FUN Contest

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Sun, 27 May 2012 12:38:40 -0700

Time to Hit the Road! - “SUMMER FUN Contest”

This is an entry for the Positive Attitude for the Weary Soul Group Contest! | Fun in the Sun While the Business Still Runs! Join in on the Challenge!

What will I do for my much-needed break for summer fun? I have only one big trip planned this year: I’ll be going home to Pittsburgh for a HUGE Family Reunion. I will have to board an airplane for that one, but do anticipate that the fellowship and fun of seeing family and friends from all over the country will be worth the hassle of the airports.

As for the rest of the season, Vince and I will do as we do every summer-- we will take advantage of the ideal weather and treat ourselves to several long weekends away. We like to fill up the tank and take summertime road trips to visit friends, family and attractions in nearby states. And of course, we will find some time to hit the beaches of the Savannah and the Panhandle! It is wonderful to live within driving distance of a beach!

How will the business still run while we go gallivanting? Well, thank heavens for the internet, portable equipment and reliable teammates. We can take our business with us anywhere. That’s how we make it work. Our laptops are lightweight and our phones are smart. Our teammates are wonderful and we always have each other's backs when someone needs to “get away.”

Every business runs better when people make time to work in a little R&R!

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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A Memorial Day Salute

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Sun, 27 May 2012 12:01:49 -0700

Memorial Day

Well here we are at the end of the fifth month of 2012 already. Almost halfway through the year! The older I get, the faster the months seem to fly by.

As we approach the last Monday of May, I join you in remembering the men of women of your family and friends who gave their lives while serving in the United States Military. My Grandparents used to refer to the day as “Decoration Day,” a day when families in our working class Pittsburgh neighborhood would plant flags and fresh flowers on the gravesites of fallen heroes.

We know it now as “Memorial Day.”

Once again, I join you in saluting those who paid so dearly for our freedoms.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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What Would I Do Without Email?

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Fri, 25 May 2012 13:01:38 -0700

Sometimes it is hard to believe that I used to get along perfectly well in my work life without all of the hi-tech tools that I rely so heavily upon in my business today. Now, I often wonder how I ever did it.

I remember when I first read about and then purchased the nifty little (by 1980’s standards) all-in-one Macintosh and dot matrix printer, one of the first off the assembly line I think. I actually bought it to make music with but quickly found that it had a treasure chest of other uses, and was immediately hooked!

But of all the useful features of the personal computer, there is one tool that stood out then and still stands head and shoulders above ALL the rest for me.

Email – What would I do without it?

I used to get such a rush whenever I saw that little mail truck parked on my screen! Remember that? It is the one tool I hope to never, ever have to do without. I use it all day, everyday, for every aspect of my life.

Email let’s me communicate with whom I choose, when I choose. No irritating ring-tones intruding rudely upon my space. In fact, no noise in my ear at all. My ears are free to listen to whatever I choose while I communicate with you. (Usually that’s the birds singing in my back yard.)

Email let’s me tend to my important business on my own schedule, and ignore the rest.

It's the easiest ever way to share information.

The ability to add attachments is a major convenience. No we can scan clean copies of everything and then transmit them just as cleanly (as opposed to fax, where legibility degenerates with every successive copy). Add to this the ability to add an electronic signature with EchoSign, and work-life gets sweeter and sweeter.

Email also allows me to instantly message multiple recipients without even the cost of postage.

And I can converse with email, too. It has become my favorite way to chat back-and-forth with my associates, clients, family and friends one-on-one whenever I need or want to

Email is this 21^st century entrepreneur’s most valued tech tool.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Blogging and SEO? Post your Tips and Tricks Here.

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:49:53 -0700

Hmmm. This is rather strange.

I came to the "Blogging and SEO" group today looking for discussions on blogging and SEO, and what I find -- aside from an old post from 2010 at the very top of the thread -- is a bunch of property postings.

While I'm sure many of these may be good examples of blogging for SEO in action, wouldn't it be nice to actually share our best tips and tricks in a quick and easy manner by posting them here? I'll bet there was a lot of that in the beginning of this group, huh?

Well, that kind of content is hard to find in here now.

Anybody besides me want to actually talk about blogging and SEO? I am currently involved in the AR University 1st ever Blogging Boot Camp, and learning quite a bit about how to best use this blogging platform.

Yet, it would be nice to exchange ideas with others who've been blogging on other platforms. So, I invite you to join me in this thread and let's share our quick tips and tricks and discoveries here, and keep it at the top of the board so it's easy to find.

Anybody in?

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Speaking of Points.....Who knows the answer to this one?

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 21 May 2012 13:35:55 -0700

Hi, fellow Contesteers! Since AR has weekly limits on how many of each category of points you may accumulate, here's a critical question:

Does anyone know what an activerain "week" consists of? Is it Sunday through Saturday, like the rest of the world? Or is it Monday through Sunday, the working person's week?

The difference could be critical to someone trying to max out their potential weekly points on Saturday (or Sunday) night.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Henry County GA Short Sale - Set the Right Expectation

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Sat, 19 May 2012 19:50:38 -0700

Henry County GA Short Sale - Set the Right Expectation

Your Henry County short sale will be easier when you have accurate expectations established from the beginning.

Ever wonder why the short sale process seems to take so much longer than a traditional sale? One of the main reasons is the number of stakeholders who must all agree. You might be surprised at the number of players who have a stake in that short sale bargain you are waiting to be approved.

First, of course, the buyer and the seller must agree to their contract. But then the real fun begins when that contract is submitted to the lender for approval. For the short sale approval is often contingent on several sets of guidelines from the different parties holding interest in the loan(s). Also, the major players may not only have agree to accept the short sale price, but also must all agree to every one of the terms of the short sale contract.

Since most of these “interested parties” will lose money on the deal, decisions must be made as to how much they are willing to lose and under what terms and circumstance they will allow this to happen. Only then can there be consensus on the approval. The result is the lengthy process we’ve all come to expect.

Who might be involved in your Henry County GA short sale approval process?

Here’s a fairly common list:

The 1st Mortgage Holder
The 1st Mortgage Servicer
The 1st Mortgage Investor(s)
The 1st Mortgage Insurer
The 2nd Mortgage Holder
The 2nd Mortgage Servicer
The 2nd Mortgage Investor(s)
The Home Equity Line of Credit, etc, etc, etc
The 2^nd Mortgage Insurer
Plus, any other Junior Lien Holders (HELOC, tax liens, credit card liens, HOA liens, etc) that must be satisfied before the title can be transferred to a new owner.

Get the picture? As you can see, patience and cooperation will be required by sellers, buyers and agents. Your Henry County GA short sale agent should be sure that these things are explained to all parties up front, so that correct expectations are set when entering into a short sale negotiation.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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A Renovator's Dream Is Showcased - Before & After

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Fri, 18 May 2012 18:24:57 -0700

This post from home stager Janice Ankrett really shows what a difference strategic staging can make when you are trying to sell a home. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words, so I won't write a lot more here. Janice's photos say it all. Just suffice it for me to say, this is home staging in real life. See for yourself how well it can work.

Via Janice Ankrett Burlington Ontario Accredited Staging Professional (Janice Ankrett Home Staging):

I received a call recently from a Renovator. A project was nearing completion and they wanted to stage the home for sale.

We went through the house together discussing each area and the finishing touches they had planned.

Together we chose the pieces to be used in each room.

Staging pulled these rooms together and now Buyers will have no trouble seeing their lifestyle fitting into this home.

The fireplace is the first thing you see when entering the home.

Now the fireplace makes a statement.

(logs to follow ;) )

Great Room before.

Great Room ready for viewing

Dining Space Before

Dining Space ready for Buyers

Staging a vacant home brings it to life. Seeing furnishings in the space helps Buyers size the rooms.

Light the Buyer's imagination with Staging.

Serving Burlington,Oakville, Milton, Hamilton & surrounding areas. 905-467-5353

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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The Bank Is KILLING My Neighborhood's Value!

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Fri, 18 May 2012 18:05:14 -0700

I hear versions of this lament on a regular basis in the South Metro Atlanta neighborhoods that I serve as a short sale specialist.

So, I'm happy to be able to share this pithy post from the Spear Team.

The best way to protect your community's home values is to be proactive in helping your neighbors or yourself discover all the options available to avoid Georgia foreclosure..... but that another post altogether.

For now, please enjoy this re-blog and spread it around.

Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):

The Bank Is KILLING My Neighborhood's Value!

Dear Liz,
A foreclosed home just went up for sale in my neighborhood and the price is LOW!!! REALLY LOW!!! They're going to destroy our neighborhood property values!!! What's the deal with that? What's the bank thinking???
Signed,
Distressed About Distresseds

Dear DAD,
There's a whole host of reasons behind that price! And while you may not like that price, the bank has only ONE interest and that's it's own self-interest. A home is an asset or a deduction on some accountant's spreadsheet. A liability that the bank is responsible for until it's sold to someone else.

So while that home is sitting there unoccupied, it's deteriorating. We've visited MANY foreclosed homes and rarely are they in tip top condition. Often the decline started LONG before the bank got involved. Once the previous owners couldn't keep up with payments, chances are lots of maintenance got put off. Holes in walls, electrical problems, slow leaks, they're NOT getting fixed. The owners probably would have preferred to fix things, but with a lack of money in the wallet it wasn't happening.

And if the bank is lucky, the sellers didn't to any intentional damage on the way out. We've seen speaker wires pulled through the drywall, every door ripped off it's hinges. Patio doors left open for the rain to come in and ruin the carpets, and worse..... Not everyone leaves on good terms.

And even if they did leave on good terms before eviction, things can still happen after the home is empty. Things a resident would notice don't get caught by the bank. A leaky pipe doesn't get caught in a few minutes, but perhaps a few DAYS and extensive damage! And the less savory elements of society might just be watching the foreclosure list too, and just waiting to "acquire" copper pipe from the furnace and plumbing system. And since the home isn't getting aired out, a prime environment for mold and mildew and other problems.

And assuming the home IS actually in decent condition, they STILL need to get that home sold rapidly. Every month is an increased loss as they pay for utilities and upkeep. If there's a fire, it's there problem. A break-in, it's their problem. And unlike when someone lives in a home, and empty home isn't providing a return on investment, but instead just digging a deeper hole.

So the bank is going to price the home for it's condition, and price it to move, and move it most likely will. Either a DIY type or a flipper may go after that home in less than optimal condition, and when THEY go to sell it you'll get a "normal" market price for the home.

And if this one home is the only foreclosure in your neighborhood, don't worry about it dropping your home's value or that of your neighbors. As long as other homes are selling, a true value picture of the community is there. It's when the predominant sales in your neighborhood are bank owned or short sales that you should be nervous. (We've seen that too).

As you can see, there's a lot of reasons a bank owned home may be priced low. Bottom line, you WANT them to sell that home quickly and get someone in there who will take care of it. Fix what's broken, mow the lawn, loan you their power tools, be a neighbor.

Serving Warren County's residential real estate needs,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz

The Liz Spear Team
Elizabeth & William Spear
RE/MAX Elite: Ask for us by name if you visit the office!
Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Office direct: 513-248-3660 Liz direct: 513-265-3004
Bill direct: 513-520-5305 Fax: 866-302-8418

MailTo: Liz@LizSpear.com Our Website: Warren County Ohio Homes

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Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Another Henry County GA Short Sale Closed - GMAC Mortgage

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Thu, 17 May 2012 17:18:04 -0700

Henry County GA Short Sale Closed with a GMAC Mortgage.

The short sale specialists on the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team have done it again. We've closed another GMAC short sale in Henry County GA.

The buyer of this McDonough GA real estate bargain got a great, well-maintained property at a substantial discount, and the seller got relief from an unmanageable mortgage, with FULL SETTLEMENT OF ALL LIENS!

Everybody wins with a Henry County short sale.

What a bargain for the savvy investor-buyer. This cute and cozy McDonough GA home sold for less than the REOs or traditional resales in the same subdivision. It now has a proud new owner, and another proactive seller was able to successfully avoid Georgia foreclosure by choosing to short sell while she had time to get the transaction done.

Avoid Georgia Foreclosure with a short sale.

Deciding whether to short sell now, or hold on and wait for something to change can be a challenging decision. But don’t let fear lead to inaction. If you are in default of your mortgage, foreclosure in Georgia can be swift and brutal. Don’t delay in getting the help you need for a successful outcome like this one. Your Henry County GA short sale could be the beginning of a new lease on life. Avoid Georgia foreclosure by knowing your options and making the choice to act without further delay.

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Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Ellenwood GA & Henry County GA Short Sales Help from Bank of America

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:54:55 -0700

Ellenwood GA short sales, McDonough GA short sales and all Henry County GA short sales may get a boost from an unexpected source......Bank of America!

The new Enhanced Relocation Assistance Program from Bank of America may help many Ellenwood GA homeowners and other Henry County GA homeowners get relief from an unmanageable mortgage, and cash at closing, too!

Announcing a HUGE OPPORTUNITY for Bank of American Loan Holders

People who short sell are getting cash at the closing table. Don’t let an unaffordable mortgage ruin your life. For a limited time, homeowners are receiving anywhere from $2500 to $30,000 in relocation assistance when they short sell. That's right! Up to 30,000 dollars for selling their underwater home.

The Best Atlanta Short Sales Team can help you get started. If you are struggling to keep up your payments, or if your modification failed and you are looking for other options, this new program from Bank of America may help.

You don't need equity to sell!. See the details below. Then contact Best Atlanta Short Sales at 678-855-5238 to discuss the available options you may qualify for.

Rules* - The relocation assistance payment is calculated based on the appraised value of the homeowner's property. The total amount will be no less than $2,500, but no more than $30,000. The payment will be delivered at the time of closing if the homeowner complies with all terms and conditions of the Short Sale Agreement, which includes but are not limited to the following: a full walk-through appraisal must be completed and the homeowner must satisfy all junior liens and provide clear title for the property (the relocation assistance payment can be used to clear those liens). The short sale must close by September 26, 2013. If the homeowner does not comply with all terms and conditions of the Short Sale Agreement, they will not receive the relocation assistance payment. The amount of any deficiency and relocation assistance will be reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on the appropriate 1099 Form or Forms. We suggest that the homeowner contact the IRS or their tax preparer to determine if they have any tax liability.

Call us for more information today.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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The Best Atlanta Short Sales Team - How it All Started

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 15 May 2012 18:12:02 -0700

The Best Atlanta Short Sales Team began forming in my mind almost as soon as I got started in real estate.

I came to this career late in my professional life. Real estate is in fact my third entrepreneurial endeavor. When I moved to the Atlanta metro in 2006, I found that my previous business in independent television production in southern California did not easily translate to an opportunity in Georgia. I've always been a self-confessed house-a-holic and real estate aficionado, and always thought it was a field I'd like to try on for size someday.

"Someday" came in 2007, while recovering from a physical condition that kept me off my feet for several months. I took that opportunity to learn all I could about eal estate and eventually take a licensing course. Later that year, when I was back on my feet, I took the state exam and soon hung my license with my first broker.

Now, as you will recall, in 2007 the bottom was fast falling out of the once-booming real estate market. I knew almost immediately that I would only be able to grow a business in that tumultuous climate by focusing on those who needed help to sell a property that was now underwater. The need was for short sales specialists in the areas I served -- Ellenwood GA, Henry County GA and Atlanta GA -- so that is where I staked my claim.

As soon as I had a few buyer sales under my belt, I researched and invested in the best short sale training program available, and earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert designation. I was on my way, and I continue to upgrade my skills and short sale expertise on an ogoing basis. This is an absolute MUST in such a volatile, fast-changing field.

After a few years in this niche I had enough business to need some help, and so the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team was realized from that original idea to a dedicated team of real estate specialists. Now in it's second year of operations, Elmo Francis is the team's more-than-capable Buyer Specialist extraordinaire, and my husband, Vince Lee, brings his extensive broadcast marketing background into play as our Marketing Director.

As it looks like short sales will be a major need in the marketplace for several years to come, I have high expectations that the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team will be kept busy serving the south metro communities in and around Atlanta, GA -- helping home owners solve the foreclosure crisis, one home at a time.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Homesafe Georgia Now Taking Applications

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 15 May 2012 07:07:07 -0700

Are you a Georgia homeowner who has suffered a hardship due to unemployment or underemployment through no fault of your own? Were you current on your mortgage before the event of the unemployment or underemployment? And are you no more than six months behind on the mortgage now?

If you answered yes to all of the above, you may be eligible for mortgage assistance under the Homesafe Georgia program.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs has partnered with GHFA Affordable Housing, Inc. to deliver a statewide unemployment mortgage payment assistance program to prevent foreclosures, under the name HomeSafe Georgia.

HomeSafe Georgia will help by providing "bridge" mortgage assistance to many Georgians who are unemployed or have seen a dramatic decrease in their income due to national economic conditions.

Other eligibility requirements apply. Check the Homesafe Georgia website for Eligibility Requirements and an eligibility checklist.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Mortgage Process Tips For Home Buyers

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 07 May 2012 06:36:23 -0700

NAR recently reported that a third of its surveyed agents are experiencing derailed closings, with buyer fall-out being one of the three main reasons. That makes this post by my friend Kathy Sheehan via Roy Kelley particularly timely to share with my clients and neighbors.

Be careful! Don't let any of these stumblers de-rail your housing pourchase.

Via Roy Kelley, Montgomery County, MD Homes For Sale (Roy Kelley and RE/MAX Realty Group):

Mortgage Process Tips For Home Buyers

Guest blog by Kathy Sheehan, Georgia Mortgage Loan Professional, MiLend, Inc.,

Cell 770-634-4021

Mortgage loan applicants should keep in mind that during your application and documentation review period any slight change can result in a denial. Before you do ANYTHING, discuss the potential impact with your loan officer.

Regardless of the financing program, here is my list of do’s and don’ts to help eliminate hurdles as you go through the process.

1. DO NOT apply for any new credit

2. DO NOT change jobs

3. DO NOT make cash deposits into your checking account

4. DO NOT transfer funds from one account to another

5. DO NOT make any large purchases, such as furniture or appliances

6. DO NOT significantly increase the balances on credit cards

7. DO NOT schedule movers until your file is CLEAR TO CLOSE.

8. DO NOT make travel arrangements until your file is CLEAR TO CLOSE

9. DO NOT reduce or raise any credit limits on credit cards.

Here is the list of do’s

1. Immediately communicate any change of employment or income to your loan officer

2. Communicate clearly any pertinent dates, such as move out from apartments, etc.

3. Respond quickly to any requests made during the process for clarification or additional documentation

If a situation comes up, it is best to discuss it with your licensed mortgage professional before you take action!

Thanks, Kathy, for sharing this advice for our home buyer clients.

Be sure to have your camera in hand to capture the changing colors of the season when you are out and about in your community.

Longwood Gardens IMG_2452

Photograph by Roy Kelley. Canon PowerShot G11 camera.

Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs

We represent home buyers and sellers as their exclusive agents in the Maryland suburbs of Washington DC and nearby counties. Your Real Estate Professionals In Maryland.

Roy Kelley
Roy Kelley & Associates
Associate Broker, RE/MAX Realty Group

Client Assistance: 301-670-8996

Recipient of the RE/MAX International Lifetime Achievement Award - 2008

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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How to Write A Short Sale Offer In A Competitive Market

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Sat, 05 May 2012 17:53:56 -0700

Tni's post is a timely reminder to Atlanta short sale agents and their buyer clients of what it takes to win in the current "multiple offer" short sale environment. Give a little to get a lot. A short sale bargain can be a coup worth the effort and time involved.

Via Tni LeBlanc REALTOR® Santa Maria CA Homes Central Coast:

How to Write A Short Sale Offer In A Competitive Market

The local real estate market in Santa Maria and Orcutt California is currently dominated by bidding wars and multiple offer situations. So, no matter what type of listing it is (REO, short sale or traditional), the one certainty is competition. As a local short sale agent, I am amazed at the offers I see that just will not fly in this environment. Although short sale sellers generally do not receive proceeds from the sale (unless they are lender approved incentive payments), their needs and desires should be considered when writing a short sale offer, especially if you want to gain their acceptance of your offer in a low inventory market.

Here are a few tips:

●    Don’t ask for the seller’s personal belongings. I’ve seen this time and time again. Hands off the seller’s personal belongings! Unless it is offered in the listing sheet (and maybe not even then), do not ask for a short sale seller’s refrigerator, washer, dryer, or couch. Short sale sellers are usually in financial distress, most don’t welcome also having to replace appliances and furniture when they move.

●    Offer to put your initial deposit in escrow. This shows commitment to the deal, and that you are probably not one of those buyers who is constantly shopping around while the seller is applying for short sale approval. Losing a buyer is one of the typical reasons why short sales drag on and on and if the foreclosure time clock has begun it can also cause the seller to lose the property through foreclosure. Assure the seller that you are committed to the deal by showing them the money.

●    Do your home inspection up front. Most short sale sellers are looking to sell their home “as is” because they do not have the funds to make repairs. Of course, buyers are encouraged to carefully review disclosures and perform a home inspection so they can determine what “as is” is. By offering to do your home inspection up front, the seller is assured that you are committed to the deal and that they are not going to be hit with last minute repair requests after the short sale approval has been issued.

●    Write a clean offer. Clean offers are easier to get approved by the short sale lender. Offers that do not ask the seller to pay closing costs, termite repairs, or purchase home warranty policies are generally considered “cleaner” than offers that request those concessions. If the market is competitive, consider leaving out the extras that you would like to have but are not likely to get. Don’t assume that you will receive a counter offer in a competitive market.

●    Offer a timeline that works for the seller. If the home is still occupied by the seller, have your real estate agent ask the listing agent about the seller’s plans. If they are still figuring it all out, they may want to wait for the regular contract period to begin. If they are mostly concerned about minimizing damage to their credit and an upcoming inability to pay, they may prefer that you begin the regular contract period now and be ready to close when the short sale approval(s) arrive. Find out what that particular short sale seller wants in terms of a timeline and offer it to them.

If you are interested in purchasing a short sale home in the competitive Santa Maria and Orcutt real estate market, it may help to work with an agent who has short sale experience. Understanding the short sale process and the dynamics at play for short sale sellers, can be essential when making short sale offers in this competitive market.

Those considering a short sale of their property should obtain legal and tax advice, and also consult with an experienced local short sale agent. If you are considering a short sale of your Santa Maria, Orcutt, or Nipomo home and would like a no cost short sale consultation, please call my office to schedule a meeting or a telephone consultation at (805) 938-9950.

TniLeBlanc is an independent Real Estate Broker, Attorney, and Short Sale Agent. She is a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource(SFR), and Certified HAFA Specialist (CHS) serving the Santa Maria, Orcutt and Five Cities area of the Central Coast of California.

* Nothing in this article is intended to solicit listings currently under contract with another broker. This article offers no legal or tax advice. Those considering a short sale are advised to consult with their own attorney for legal advice, and their tax professional for tax advice prior to entering into a short sale listing agreement. Any and all program benefits described are subject to change.

Copyright© 2012 Tni LeBlanc *How to Write A Short Sale Offer In A Competitive Market*

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Atlanta Short Sale Agent - Bank of America Equator.com Requires More to Start

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Sat, 05 May 2012 17:35:28 -0700

Bank of America short sales may be getting a speed boost, but the process just got more intense for every Atlanta short sale agent on the listing side.

As part of its revamped process to speed short sale decisions, Bank of America is now requiring a lot more up-front document and information collection.

Before a new file can even be initiated in Equator.com, the Atlanta short sale agent must have an accepted short sale offer in hand as well as a preliminary HUD1 ready to upload. The lender also now requires their own proprietary third-party authorization form, as well as a new Short Sale Addendum and Buyer and Agent Disclosure forms which must be signed off and uploaded at the start of the process.

This piles a lot of additional responsibility on the listing agent, in what was already a much more paperwork-intensive process than a traditional listing or even an REO listing.

To overview, five documents are now required to initiate a Bank of America short sale in Equator.com:

A purchase contract including buyer’s acknowledgment and agents’ disclosure.
A prelimnary HUD-1 prepared by a title firm.
IRS Form 4506-T completed by the seller.
Bank of America short-sale addendum signed by all parties and agents.
Bank of America third-party authorization form.

Yes, it’s extra work. But the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team, and Atlanta short sale agents in general, have always worked hard to help Atlanta homeowners avoid foreclosure, and save our communities from further foreclosure blight. And we do appreciate every effort on the part of the lenders to better facilitate a successful short sale process.

So, we will keep abreast of these changes as they happen and continue to assist our neighbors with their short sale needs, and keep fighting for our communities every step of the way.

If you have questions about the short sale process or other pre-foreclosure options, we offer tons of free downloadable information at BestAtlantaShortSales.com. Or call me, Elva Branson, direct at 678-855-5238 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Ellenwood GA Real Estate - Hardest Hit Funds Available to Georgia Home Owners

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Fri, 04 May 2012 07:10:39 -0700

Important tip for Ellenwood GA real estate owners: On August 11 2010 the U. S. Treasury announced the State of Georgia’s inclusion in an expansion of the “Hardest Hit Fund”. The purpose of the program is to help Georgia home owners who have experienced job loss or a substantial decrease in their income with a mortgage payment “bridge” while they find new or higher paying employment.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) under contract with Georgia Housing and Finance Authority’s GHFA Affordable Housing Inc. will administer Georgia’s HHF program.

Georgia's Hardest Hit Fund is now "Homesafe Georgia".

DCA’s HHF pilot program began December 15, 2010, during which DCA reviewed procedures to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with Treasury’s requirements. The full program launched on April 1, 2011. The Georgia HHF program, HomeSafe Georgia, will end on December 31, 2017 or when funds are depleted, whichever comes first.

For those who qualify, HomeSafe Georgia loans will be funded on a first come, first served basis. Loan application packages are worked in the date order of receipt. Once the HHF program funds are depleted, HomeSafe Georgia will cease accepting applications.

If you are an Ellenwood GA real estate owner and think you may qualify, get the FAQs of the Homesafe program today.

For more information about Treasury’s Hardest Hit Fund (HHF), visit the Financial Stability website.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Atlanta Short Sale Agent Reports on Bank of America Equator.com Changes

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Wed, 02 May 2012 05:08:05 -0700

As an Atlanta short sale agent, I know what buyers agents' are getting at when they call on my short sale listings and almost immediately ask, "Who is the lender?" I already know that a big groan is coming from that agent when the answer is, "BOA." It never fails.

But now I can allay their fears somewhat, with some very hopeful news about the “dreaded” Bank of America short sale process: the lender has implemented some major changes to speed the decision-making process. The good news is that the new process expedites everything on the front end and promises a speedy decision.

But, like most change, there is a good side and a bad side.

On the flip side, the lender is also speeding the process on the back end…and not in a good way. In fact, they have rescinded a previously granted boon to agents and sellers – the 14-day grace period to replace a lost buyer with a new one has been drastically reduced in this newest incarnation. You now have just five days to submit a backup offer should the primary buyer walk away.

That's bad news for the Atlanta short sale agent who does not have a back-up offer waiting in line, because there are plenty of properties to choose from in the Atlanta real estate market, and buyers don't have to stand in line. But, unless you have a back-up buyer and can meet this 5-day deadline, the file will be closed and you’ll be back to square one, opening a brand new short sale file!

Hopefully, the new process will eliminate a good portion of this primary buyer fall-out by shortening the approval process, as most buyers who withdraw their short sale offers do so because of the length of the previous process, where weeks so often turned into months.

Stay tuned. Next up, I’ll give you the details of the new up-front document and information collection process.

Read part 1 of this series, "Changes to Speed the Short Sale Decision".

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Changes to Speed the Short Sale Decision - Pt 1

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 01 May 2012 20:59:04 -0700

Changes Will (Hopefully) Speed the Short Sale Decision

Things are always changing in the short sale arena. Guidelines change. Processes change. Paperwork changes. It is a Best Atlanta Short Sales goal to keep our community home sellers and buyers updated on these topics as they happen.

This week brings post 1 of a new series to keep us all abreast of changes which promise to significantly the speed up the short sale approval process -- good news for Atlanta short sale agents, buyers and sellers.

I posted recently about the coming changes to the Bank of America short sale process, and now they are in effect. We are hoping that these changes will indeed reduce lender decision times on short sale offers, which prior to the change could easily take 45 days or longer – sometimes much, much longer.

Bank of America is promising that their newest changes to their Equator.com short sale process could result in decisions within as little as 20 days!

What accounts for this ability to speed the decision?

Under the old system, tasks such as document collection, valuation and underwriting had to take place in a linear manner, which meant that your short sale file would lie motionless in the queue between phases while each step in the process was fully completed. Only then could the file be moved forward to the next step.

This linear processing, particularly in the areas of document collection and review, has been the source of much frustration on all sides.

The new system now allows these steps to be conducted simultaneously, and should result in a significant shortening of the process. That’s the good news. As you know, there is always a flip side.

Stay tuned for more short sale updates in the coming weeks.

Read part 2 of this series, Atlanta Short Sale Agent Reports on Changes...

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Knock, Knock. Who’s There? Sellers Beware!

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 01 May 2012 05:31:02 -0700

We talk a lot about real estate agent safety, but home buyers and sellers may need to be schooled also.

It's always best to be safe rather than sorry. That's why the customary (and preferred) method of home showings for the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team is by appointment and accompanied by a licensed agent. Always.

This message from The Branch Team is short and to the point, and definitely worth heeding.

Via Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 (RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs):

I received a call this evening from one of my sellers. A potential buyer had showed up at her home, rang the doorbell, and asked to see the home. While this raised red flags for her, she let him into her home and showed him around.

The good news is that nothing happened.

It’s one thing to allow an agent with a keycard and who has scheduled an appointment into your home, but allowing a stranger off the street to do so could be a recipe for disaster.

Buyers off the street should always be referred to your agent. Agents generally qualify potential buyers before showing homes to them. This process tends to weed out unqualified or “buyers" with other motives.

Sellers, I know you want to sell your home, but please do not forfeit your safety in the process.

Photo licensed from iStockPhoto

Originally posted at http://www.thebranchteam.com/wordpress/2012/04/30/knock-knock-whos-there-sellers-beware/

Tom Branch and Gina Branch, The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs, service the greater North Dallas suburbs including Dallas, Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Lewisville, and Carrollton. While Gina concentrates on traditional listings and buyer/tenant representation, Tom specializes in assisting distressed homeowners to avoid foreclosure. Tom and Gina have published two books (Achieving Rock Star Status and The Field Guide to Short Sales) and are available for speaking engagements in the greater Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex. Subscribe to The Branch Team Blog.

Copyright 2009-2012 - The Branch Team
The Branch Team - Texas Real Estate Broker 547597 | Team Members are Texas Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Tom Branch - National Mortgage Licensing System 341963

Important Notice: The Branch Team with RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs is not associated with the government, and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage, you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Properties subject to prior sale or rental.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Atlanta Short Sale Report to Help Georgia Homeowners Stay in Their Homes

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:01:11 -0700

Atlanta Short Sale Report: free information to Help Georgia Homeowners Stay in Their Homes

Because I am a stakeholder in the community both as a resident and as a short sale agent, I want to spread the word quickly and without price constraint. It's too important to hold back.

That's why, every month, I make a free short sales information report available for instant download on the Best Atlanta Short Sales web site to share with my Georgia neighbors everything that I have learned as a short sales agent about how a person can avoid foreclosure in Georgia. This month's report is all about the recent Robo-Signing settlement and how it can Help Georgia Homeowners Stay in Their Homes, and is available for instant download right now just by clicking the link. It's informative, short and easy to read and understand.

I offer these free short sale reports because I'm a Change Agent, and not just a real estate agent. The health of my business is closely tied to the health of my community and neighbors.

For these reasons, among others, I can't afford NOT to give away what I know. Especially when I'm looking for people to help.

So, please, help yourself to a copy of "The Robo-Signing Settlement: How it can help Georgia Homeowners stay in their homes" now. The short sale report offers proven strategies for anyone facing a possible bank foreclosure on their real property due to relocation or hardship.

Since almost everybody knows somebody who is going through financial setback in the current economy, I hope you'll go grab a copy and pass it on to someone you know who might benefit from it.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Another Bank of Ameirca Short Sale Success in Jonesboro GA

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:31:01 -0700

Another Bank of America Short Sale Success in Jonesboro GA is always cause for a celebration.

Yes, they are usually intense transactions -- paperwork-intensive, stressful on all sides, long and drawn out in most cases, and fraught with uncertainty sometimes right up to closing day -- but a successful short sale is always worth the effort in the end, isn’t it?

Congrats to another happy family who have just become home owners and also to the sellers who have found relief from an unmanageable mortgage, as we recently closed on another successful Bank of America short sale in Jonesboro GA.

If you need help to locate and buy a Jonesboro GA short sale bargain home, let our expert Buyer Specialist agents help you to your new home.

If you need assistance in selling your upside-down Jonesboro GA property, call on the Certified Distressed Property Expert at Best Atlanta Short Sales to get the job done right.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Bank of America Short Sale Process Changes for Atlanta Home Sellers

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:48:47 -0700

Bank of America Short Sale Process Changes for Atlanta Home Sellers

As anyone who has been through the process can attest, the only things short about an Atlanta area short sale, are the name of the process and the payoff amount to the lender. A short sale is generally a 5-way-win, in my opinion – the sellers, buyers, lenders, real estate professionals and community all benefit when a short sale successfully circumvents a foreclosure .

However, it is seldom an easy win.

Short sales are typically time-consuming and paperwork-intensive. But some lenders are working to smooth that road a bit.

Bank of America this week showcased new short sale process changes that will take effect this week, beginning on Friday, April 13^th. The changes are expected to improve the short sale process and task flow, particularly those that are worked through the online equator.com platform. Enhancements will make the process less linear to reduce processing time, and also will provide greater privacy protection for Bank of America customers.

As an experienced Bank of America short sale specialist and certified Equator.com user, I welcome every effort that will ease the journey and support my clients through this arduous process, and so the Best Atlanta Short Sales Team looks forward to these improvements. We’ve reviewed the new forms and have them ready for our clients to begin using immediately.

If you are upside-down in your Bank of America Mortgage but still need to sell your Metro Atlanta house, don't hesitate to contact us for information. We are here to help.

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Robo-Signing May Mean Money for Georgia Home Owners

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:34:49 -0700

Breaking news for Georgia home owners: The Robo-Signing Settlement May Mean Money for You.

If your mortgage is held by Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Ally Financial/GMAC , Citigroup, or one of nine smaller lenders, you could be due a portion of the second- largest consumer settlement in the history of our country. And if you are eligible, that settlement could come in the form of cash or financial help with mortgage modification, mortgage refinance, short sale assistance, relocation assistance, and other foreclosure alternatives.

Finally, something has been done to provide some compensation and relief for underwater and foreclosed Georgia home owners. The government recently signed a $25 billion settlement with these 5 major lenders and nine other smaller lenders over fraudulent mortgage practices.

As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I am distinctly qualified to help you understand the options this historical settlement provides. I can help you ascertain whether or not you are eligible to participate, and also provide you with information concerning your other options to solve a mortgage crisis.

Visit the Best Atlanta Short Sales website for a copy of our free report entitled “The Second-Largest Consumer Settlement in History: This could save you from foreclosure” and contact me today to see how I can help you!

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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Looking for a Make-It-Pretty Sensei

Elva Branson-Lee, CDPE (Solid Source Realty GA) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:27:56 -0700

Hope I'm not too late. I just need some help making my blog look better and be more user friendly -- I need basic help, like how to make my photo files smaller so they load faster. I don;t know how to do this.

How about some very basic html to make my healdlines prettier, more colorful.

And -- here's the biggie -- how to put those little social icons at the bottom of the post so that readers can friend-link-like me.

Help, please!

Any Senseis left?

Elva Branson-Lee -- Short Sale Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS), Internet Marketing Specialist

Looking for an EXPERT SHORT SALE AGENT? Let Google help

Solid Source Realty GA 770-475-1130 ext. 8988

Search for homes for sale in Metro Atlanta.

Learn how to Avoid Georgia Foreclosure.

Get ALL of your short sale questions answered here.

Serving the South Metro Atlanta cities buying and selling real estate, property, houses and homes in:

Ellenwood, East Point, Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conley, Rex, McDonough, Hampton, Jonesboro, Morrow, Locust Grove, Lake City, Fayetteville, Fairburn, Forest Park and Stockbridge.

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