Short-Sale.com
Last reviewed 2026-05-15Short-Sale.com Editorialbasics

How short sales generally work

Every file differs, but many short sales move through similar milestones:

  1. Hardship package — Financials and a letter explaining what changed.
  2. Listing — Market exposure consistent with investor arms-length expectations.
  3. Offer — Contract that net-outs closing costs on a net sheet or equivalent.
  4. Servicer review — Possibly including investor auto-valuation or appraisal.
  5. Approval letter — Lists net proceeds, deadlines, and sometimes contribution language.
  6. Closing — Funds disperse; liens release per escrow instructions.

Patience and documentation

Gaps in paperwork restart clocks. Keep secure copies of every upload and confirmation number.