But they are also a complex and complicated transaction that requires some knowledge and research. As with any real estate transaction, make sure you are working with a skilled and professional REALTOR®.

In addition, Karen Schlosser blogs about what you need to be sure to ask of a listing agent should you find yourself interested in a short sale listing.

“Before embarking on viewing or purchasing a short sale listing, the listing agent should be asked questions to obtain as much information about the status of the short sale as possible.

The purpose of asking questions ahead of time is to help assess the status of the short sale and, hopefully, set realistic expectations of the prospective transaction.”

A short sale could be an opportunity to get a potential homeowner into a great property. And any listing agent will most likely be more than happy to supply you with any information about the property that you may need. The best buyer is an informed buyer. So know what questions to ask.

Click through now to read Karen Schlosser’s blog.

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An experienced REALTOR® is an asset to any home buyer or seller. Through years of training and countless transactions, a Realtor has learned to plan ahead and expect the unexpected. Home  buyers and sellers who are thinking of navigating their transaction on their own would be wise to use the expertise of someone who has been down the road before.

Karen Schlosser blogs about being prepared:

“Being prepared can be as simple as listening to the weather report and dressing appropriately, or as complicated as preparing for a week’s hike on the Appalachian Trail without the frills of hotels, restaurants or even running water.

When it comes to real estate, buyers and sellers need to ‘be prepared’ so surprises are minimized. Can you possibly anticipate everything that could happen? No, but there are some things that seem to be happening over and over that are taking people by surprise. To get to the state of readiness of being prepared, one must anticipate (i.e. expect) what might come up (i.e. the unexpected) using their own and others’ life experiences.”

Schlosser’s message is a reminder of how complicated buying or selling a home can be. With the increasing popularity of foreclosures and short sales, this has never been more true. While some may complain about commission, those who have been through a successful transaction understand how priceless a Realtor’s guidance can be.

Click through to read Karen Schlosser’s full post.

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