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What’s a Short Sale in Real Estate? This FAQ Sheet Breaks Down the Basics

HomeLight

In the midst of these financial straits, there may be a slightly better option: a short sale. But what is a short sale, and is it the right route for you? Weve broken out the most common questions about short sales to help you make a more informed decision about your next steps. What is a short sale?

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Selling a House With a Mortgage: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Redfin

From your expected sale price, subtract: The full mortgage payoff amount Real estate agent commissions Closing costs Any unpaid taxes, liens, or HOA fees Repair credits or buyer concessions What’s left is your net proceeds—the money you’ll take home, if all goes well. When offers roll in, don’t focus only on price.

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How to Buy a Foreclosed Home: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Redfin

There are several types of foreclosure sales – auctions, bank-owned properties, government-owned properties, preforeclosures, and short sales. Preforeclosure can be tricky as sometimes the properties may never be for sale. Short sales A short sale is not the same as a foreclosure or a pre-foreclosure.

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Are FHA Loans Assumable? What Buyers and Sellers Should Know

Redfin

Lower closing costs With an FHA loan assumption, the buyer might also benefit from reduced closing costs. In addition to the downpayment, these may include a loan assumption fee, as well as other closing costs like title fees, credit report costs, or attorney fees.

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First-Time Home Buyer Advice: Third Quarter 2025

The Mortgage Report

I think in some cities, like Phoenix, we are starting to see a little bit of foreclosure or short sale happening. And, with sellers facing more competition, don’t hesitate to ask for extras—whether it’s help with closing costs, appliance packages, or repairs before move-in.

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How Much Equity Do I Have in My Home? Here’s How to Calculate Home Equity

Redfin

Ideally, you would have enough equity to cover commissions, any liens, and closing costs. If you dont have enough equity to pay these costs, youll have to bring your own funds to pay them. Foreclosure can damage your credit score, so you may want to consider a short sale if this is the case.

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Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House with Cash in 2025?

Marco Santarelli

” Distressed sales (foreclosures and short sales) were still very low at 3% in March 2025. Lower Entry Costs: You save on loan origination fees, appraisal fees required by lenders, and other financing-related closing costs. immediate repairs, moving expenses, and your emergency fund.