Step 1: Free Consultation (Day 1)
Everything starts with a conversation. We'll learn about your situation — your mortgage balance, your lender, your financial hardship, and your goals. Based on that, we'll tell you honestly whether a short sale is likely a good fit and what to expect. This call is free, confidential, and carries zero obligation.
Step 2: Document Collection (Weeks 1–2)
If you decide to move forward, we'll provide you with a startup checklist — the documents your lender will require, such as recent bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, and a hardship letter. We'll guide you through gathering them and prepare the hardship package on your behalf.
Step 3: Listing the Property (Weeks 2–4)
We'll connect you with a licensed Sarasota County real estate agent who will list your home on the MLS at an appropriate market price. The goal is to attract qualified buyers while setting the stage for lender approval.
Step 4: Offer Received and Submitted to the Lender (Weeks 4–8)
When an offer comes in, we review it and, once it's acceptable, submit it to your lender along with the full short sale package. This submission is the beginning of the bank's formal review process.
Step 5: Lender Review and Negotiation (Weeks 6–16)
This is the stage where professional negotiators earn their value. Your lender will order a Broker Price Opinion (BPO) or appraisal, may request additional documents, and will evaluate the offer. Our team manages all of this — communicating with the lender, responding to requests, and pushing the file forward to avoid delays. You won't need to call the bank once.
Step 6: Approval Letter (Typically Month 3–5)
When the lender agrees to the terms, they issue a written approval letter. This letter outlines the agreed sale price, any conditions, and whether the remaining mortgage balance is forgiven. We review this with you carefully before you sign anything.
Step 7: Closing (Weeks Following Approval)
The title company coordinates the final closing. Documents are signed, the buyer funds the purchase, and the title transfers. Your mortgage is released. If relocation assistance was negotiated, you receive it at this stage.
After Closing
You're done. No more mortgage, no more bank calls, no more uncertainty. We'll make sure you understand any steps to take for your credit and taxes going forward, and we're available to answer questions even after closing day.