Short Sale Help,
Without the Pressure
If your mortgage balance is higher than your home's value and payments have become unmanageable, a short sale may be one path forward — but it's not the only one.
“You may have more options than you think.”
What Is a Short Sale?
A short sale is when your lender agrees to let you sell your home for less than what you owe on the mortgage. Done correctly, it can resolve unaffordable mortgage debt, avoid a foreclosure on your record, and give you a controlled, dignified exit from the property.
Short sales require lender approval and careful documentation. We help you understand whether your situation is likely to qualify, prepare the package, and negotiate with the lender on your behalf.
Signs a Short Sale Conversation May Make Sense
- You're behind on mortgage payments or expect to fall behind soon
- You owe more than the home is currently worth
- A hardship — job loss, medical bills, divorce, payment reset — has changed what you can afford
- You've received collection calls or letters from your lender
- You want to avoid a foreclosure sale on your record
First: Know What Your Home Is Actually Worth
Many homeowners assume they're underwater when they're not. San Bernardino County values have moved significantly in recent years, and you may have more equity than you think. A free, accurate valuation is always our first step — because if you have meaningful equity, a traditional sale (or another option entirely) may serve you far better than a short sale.
Alternatives We'll Help You Evaluate
- Loan modification or forbearance with your current lender
- Refinancing, if credit and equity allow
- A traditional sale using your existing equity
- Renting the property to cover the payment
- Deed-in-lieu of foreclosure as a last resort
- Speaking with a HUD-approved housing counselor (free)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a short sale stop foreclosure?
A short sale can resolve the debt before a foreclosure sale takes place, but timing matters — the earlier you start, the more options you have. If you've received a notice of default, contact us right away so we can map your timeline.
Does a short sale hurt my credit?
A short sale typically affects credit less severely than a completed foreclosure, but it does have an impact, and there can be tax consequences on forgiven debt. We'll encourage you to confirm specifics with a CPA and, where appropriate, an attorney before deciding.
What does it cost to do a short sale?
In most short sales, the lender pays the transaction costs — including agent commissions — out of the sale proceeds. Our initial consultation and home valuation are always free.
How long does a short sale take in California?
Lender review commonly takes 60–120 days after an offer is submitted, though it varies by servicer. Starting the conversation early is the single best way to keep options open.
Get a Confidential Review of Your Situation
No judgment, no obligation. We'll walk through your numbers and every available path.
Review My Options