The Rulnick Report

Report: Short Sales and Your Credit Score

2010-01-29T13:44:00.004-06:00

Curious what will happen to your credit score after a short sale?
The answer is... it depends. How many mortgage payments did you miss? How much debt do you have? What is your outstanding balance to available credit ratio? What is your overall payment history? Your "point" impact will be calculated by FICO based on these and several other criteria. Here is an actual example of how a short sale affected my Destin short sale seller's credit score.
Property: Destin short sale condo - investment property (not owner occupied)
Lender: Aurora Loan Services
Number of Missed Mortgage Payments: 23
Short Sale Reporting: "Settled for Less Than Full Amount"
Previous Credit Score: 745
"During Short Sale" Credit Score: 646
Credit Score 30 Days After Short Sale: 732 687 and 679 (from the three credit bureaus, Equifax, Transunion and Experian)
My Destin short sale seller was amazed that his credit score seemed to shoot right up after his short sale was complete. This is not always the case. The bottom line is - you won't know how your score will change until you complete your short sale. But don't be dismayed, you CAN start to rebuild your credit immediately. And don't be suprised if your financial future is brighter than you think.
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin FL Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents
Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.
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If you and your short sale sellers are having problems with Bank of America and Equator (formerly Reotrans), you are not alone. My team and I have be

2010-01-29T13:36:00.002-06:00

If you and your short sale sellers are having problems with Bank of America and Equator (formerly Reotrans), you are not alone. My team and I have been "experimenting" with the new short sale upload system since we've been forced to start using it two weeks ago. Not only does the short sale agent have to use Equator, so does the short sale seller. The idiosyncrasies of the software can be intimidating-- even to a savvy internet user.
Passwords don't work, information is wiped out, and files are rejected for reason code: OTHER.
Today a Destin short sale seller came into my office for help entering his financial information. We had already uploaded his last two years tax returns, last two months bank statements and last two paystubs by separate pdf. After entering his information and filling out thirty plus data fields, his information was WIPED out three times by Equator. WHY? He hit the back-button! But did we give up? No way! After a while, through trial and error, we found some tips to help you along your Bank of America-Equator journey.
Remember to have your seller log onto bankofamerica.com/shortsale (no www). He should already have his password, after registering at 1-866-677-2516 and having one emailed to him.
There are NO DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS, but these hints will help you to success:
The system does not accept commas in all numeric fields. It will kick out entries with commas in the lower section of the seller financial fields, those underneath the income section. (Some may find it difficult, for example, typing 100000.00 and keeping track of the correct number, but that is what it wants.)
The seller can only "Save for Later" if they fill out a complete section on the screen, from the BLUE to BLUE (HELP to HELP) area of the form. Otherwise, the info will be WIPED OUT!
When totalling numeric fields (like expenses, for example), click OUTSIDE the data entry field to the right of the "total" at the bottom of the column. Don't try to add up the fields. This will add them up for you. ( I know it makes no sense).
Finally, if you want CHAT HELP, there is no button. or link on the screen.. I knew there was a CHAT, so I called the Equator Tech Line 310-469-9167. (Expect to be on hold for thirty minutes to three hours). After finally getting through, and being put on hold for twenty minutes, they came up with this to find CHAT:
Click on the HELP button at the top of the screen. In the "Search" field, type in the word "CHAT", then an icon will appear. I am sure you would have figured that out on your own, right?
That's all for today. For more Equator hints, check back here and on the Short Sale Superstars Equator group. Until then, happy typing!
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin FL Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog
For Agents: http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.
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Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field PCS - HAP Helps You Avoid Foreclosure

2010-01-29T12:34:00.003-06:00

Are you an Eglin AFB or Hurlburt Field airman PCSing soon? If you own a home, have to sell, and owe more than your property is worth, there may be help available so you can avoid a foreclosure or even a short sale. The U.S. military Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) may help you by covering most of the loss to your mortgage holder.
These are the basic qualifications for HAP:
1. You must be PCSing more than 50 miles2. You purchased your home or entered into a contract to buy it before July 1, 20063. It was your primary residence (not a rental)4. Your orders were between February 1, 2006 and September 30, 2012.5. Your home must have declined at least 10% in value. (That should not be in problem in the Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field market). HAP may cover 90% of your loss from your original purchase price, with you bringing the difference to closing when you sell your homel If you apply for HAP and are moving from Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field or Whiting Field, here is part of an email you may receive from the HAP Savannah District:
" We cannot estimate or pay benefits until you have provided all requested information, are determined eligible, and have sold your home or have it under contract. You are encouraged to send in the information we request since we cannot determine your eligibility without it.The government acquisition option for... applicants involves the government purchasing your home and selling it immediately to your buyer in a subsequent transaction. This option is for those who cannot afford to close without it. You are advised to make every effort to sell your property at the highest reasonable price under current real estate market conditions.
Please note we will require a fully signed HUD-1 Settlement Statement from when you bought your home. Please send this document for inclusion in your file.If you listed major improvements in your application, you must provide receipts for these items if you would like them to be considered. Current guidance is that the Prior Fair Market Value is the purchase price, but it is anticipated that there may be an adjustment for improvements in the final guidance. Improvements and receipts must be in accordance with the guidelines established in IRS publications 552 & 527 (http://www.irs.gov/)."
The great news about this HAP guideline, is that your monetary assistance may be based on your cost plus improvements, not just your initial purchase price. This means, HAP may cover more of the loss to your mortgage holders - so YOU will have to bring less funds to closing to cover the difference.
If you plan on selling your home for a PCS from Eglin or Hurlburt in Navarre, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview or Mary Esther, Florida, contact a real estate agent who specializes in the HAP program. Don't let your home go to foreclosure!
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field Real Estate
Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Emerald Coast Real Estate Blog
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.
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How To Improve Your Credit Score After Short Sale or Foreclosure

2010-01-26T13:02:00.001-06:00

Are you one of the many Americans recently affected by financial woes? Have you missed payments, racked up your charge card, gone through a short sale, foreclosure or bankruptcy? As a result, your credit score has probably dropped, maybe substantially. If so, there is a great resource that may help you rebuild your credit.
MyFico.Com is a website recommended by my favorite financial guru, Suze Orman. MyFico will allow you to monitor your score and will send you email alerts whenever your score might be affected, for example:
1. You increase your balance on your charge cards (higher overall debt)
2. You apply for a car loan or other installment debt (credit inquiries)
3. You get the car loan (higher debt)
4. You pay late
5. Your credit card company lowers your limit (balance to available credit ratio)
By monitoring your score, you will be more conscious of how you can improve it. You can even set a target score – to alert you when you reach your goal. For example, if your score is 650 and your goal is 700- you will get an alert when you reach it! The other great thing MyFico does is offer a simulator to see how your score will change if you take specific action, like pay $10,000 down on your overall credit, or pay on time for five months.
What can you do to improve your score? Pay down credit cards, pay your bills on time and don't take on new installment debt. The more consistent you are with taking those actions, the quicker your score will improve. MyFico offers a 30 day free trial. If you sign up, the fee is $9.95 a month or $99.95 per year.
To get an annual free credit report, also consider the official Federal Trade Commission site http://www.annualcreditreport.com/. You can get a report once a year from the three credit reporting bureaus, Experian, Equifax and Transunion.
Watch your score and be aware of your spending. Your credit will improve... maybe sooner than you think!
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Search All Destin Florida Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Destin Real Estate Blog
http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for real estate agents
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy to sell your home or buy a home: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Call Wendy Rulnick, Destin short sale agent, to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field. Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine and Florida Realtor Magazine.
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310 Evergreen, Hurlburt Field, Mary Esther FL- Short Sale

2010-01-26T12:12:00.002-06:00

Calling Hurlburt Field and Eglin AFB! Come home to Mary Esther! This short sale house has been recently painted, with berber carpet, new ceiling fans and tile in kitchen and baths. Darling curb appeal with metal roof (about 4 years old) Central heat and air only about two years old. Bonus room with some heat and cooling not included in square footage- 280 square feet. Roomy fenced yard. This Mary Esther Florida short sale home is a quick commute to either Hurlburt or Eglin. Ten minutes to the beach, Okaloosa Island, Santa Rosa Mall and more.
Offered at $123,000.
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field Real Estate
Emerald Coast Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Short Sale Blog
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.
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4495 Ocean View, Crystal Shores, Destin Florida Short Sale

2010-01-19T15:55:00.001-06:00

The "Bimini House" in Crystal Shores, Destin Florida says "Come on in and have some fun!" with its cheerful tangerine exterior and plethora of porches. This Destin short sale home will make you smile at the happy colors and breezy decor. First floor features wood floors, open dining room, high ceilings and fireplace. The kitchen is a country delight with pass-through, eat-in space, transom windows and overlooking the heated pool. Second floor master bedroom is large and luxurious with private wrap balcony and its own fireplace! Third floor has wrap balcony with access from two more bedrooms and peak of gulf view. The carriage house has two bedrooms, kitchen and rec room. The main house is 3331 square feet and the carriage house about 500 square feet, per seller. There are a total of 6 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. Crystal Shores is a two minute walk to the Gulf of Mexio beach and near numerous shops, Destin Commons and more!
Destin short sale offered at $489,000.
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin FL Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.
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Bank of America Approves Destin Short Sale: Boldly Ask and You May Receive

2010-01-18T16:36:00.001-06:00

Bank of America Approves Destin Short Sale Condo: Pays Past Dues
Sometimes you get lucky!
Subject Property: Destin short sale condo on the harbor
Short Sale Lender: Bank of America
Mortgage Balance: $1,200,000.00
Sale Price: $490,000.00 appr
Seller Cash Contribution: -0-
Seller Promissory Note: -0-
Past Due Association Fees Paid by Bank of America: $25,235.67

Notes: I wrote a previous post about short sale condos and association dues becoming the “Next Generation of Junior Liens” because so many homeowners cannot afford to pay them. As this down real estate economy progresses, more and more owners will become delinquent on their condo or association dues. The past-due balances will build to incredible amounts, just like the one I have outlined. The short sales submitted for approval will have greatly reduced payoffs to the mortgage holders when adding in the obligation to pay these dues.
In Florida, if the short sale lender does not agree to pay these costs, there is an argument for the condo association to accept less. Florida statutes only require a payment to the condo association of the past six months in arrears if the unit is foreclosed, twelve months if it is a homeowners association. (This is a tip for negotiating Florida short sales.)
In my lucky Destin short sale, we boldly asked for all the past condo dues to be paid- a whopping $25,000! Bank of America did not blink. (Rather, the secondary market investor on the loan did not blink.) Deal approved. Give it a try.
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin FL Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog
http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents who want to Learn, Know and Grow.
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Bank of America & Equator: Are We Guinea Pigs on a Treadmill?

2010-01-14T10:58:00.007-06:00

If you haven't heard recently, Bank of America short sales are getting even… well, weirder. Their new plan is to implement an online system where real estate agents and borrowers can upload their own short sale information. It sounds great-- and it would be--if it worked. OK, you might have heard one or two success stories, but I can tell you from practical experience, until this system is refined your Bank of America short sales might take… longer!
The new system is called Equator, formally REOTrans. It is really a jerry-rigged uploading site that is also used for foreclosure (REO) offers to Bank of America. Here is my experience with it so far.
Day 1: I fax in my package to Bank of America for a new Destin short sale
Day 7: I call in to confirm the fax was received, as it takes Bank of America several days to recognize new faxes. No, and they cannot find my loan number. There is no such loan number! Huh? I call my seller. She says the loan number was changed in the past week.
Day 10: After faxing in a new authorization, I call Bank of America (BOFA) back with the new loan number. They said they changed the loan number because this file is going to their new online system, Equator. They instruct me to upload my short sale package online. My seller must also call in to get her own special password to use the system and upload her own financial documents.
Day 11: My seller calls BOFA during the day from work. She is on hold over one hour and transferred twice. During her hold time, she emails me "Still on hold, but they 'look forward to talking' with me soon". After she completes her call she tells me "I cannot believe this is what you deal with all day". She forwards me her password so I may upload all her documents for her. This means, all the tax returns, bank statements, financial worksheet, paystubs, etc. Each document must be scanned into our computer system as a separate file so we can upload them when asked.
Day 12: We try to access Equator with my seller's password. Login fails. No luck.
Day 13: We log in under my agent id. Here we upload our authorization and answer questions about the offer. Non-invasive questions like,"What is the buyer’s birth date? What are the first five digits of the buyer’s social security?"
FINALLY, we get to the offer amount. Let's use $160,000 as an example. OFFER REJECTED -insufficient. HUH? The last sale in this Destin condo complex was $150,000. So, why is our $160,000 offer insufficient? Who can I talk to?The machine? I call Bank of America and they repeat, the system says "insufficient", didn't I get a rejection email? "From generic.negotiator@bankofamerica.com I told them. Well, that is who you should email, I am told by the BOFA rep. "You are kidding, I am to email the "generic" negotiator?" The rep says, "Yes, that email is checked by different negotiators all day". OK, who am I to question the authority of Bank of America? I email generic.negotiator@bankofamerica.com (like an idiot) and of course the email address is invalid.

Day 14: Today. Plan B. I'll let you know how it goes. And I wish you better luck with Equator.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

I Need a Broker Price Opinion- This is a Comparative Market Analysis!

2010-01-13T10:16:00.004-06:00

I recently got a Mary Esther Florida short sale approved by HSBC, who always provide interesting twists to their short sales. Here is the story:
Property: Owner occupied home in Mary Esther Florida

Market Value: $130,000

Senior Lien: Wells Fargo - VA loan - $190,000

Junior Lien: HSBC - $40,000

Getting the VA compromise sale approved by Wells Fargo was the easy part of this short sale. Getting approval from HSBC, the junior lien, was a different story. HSBC had farmed out its collection efforts to a company called Professional Recovery Services. After months of waiting for a response on short sale approval, PRS finally claimed that HSBC would not allow a short sale because the borrower had filed for bankruptcy a few years ago. I was asked to provide documentation that the HSBC lien was not included in the bankruptcy. I did, but PRS said HSBC still refused to look at the short sale, claiming "a bankruptcy is a bankruptcy".
Undeterred, I contacted HSBC directly, emailing several representatives until I was directed to a negotiator in the bankruptcy department. Apparently, I had contacted the right person, as he said he would help with the short sale approval. First, though, he needed me to provide a Broker Price Opinion of the property's value. I used my Multiple Listing Service to do a detailed market analysis and faxed in the form. The HSBC negotiator, although polite enough in scripted English, had a problem with my document.
"This is not a Broker Price Opinion" he said, "It says Comparative Market Analysis".
"It's the same thing. A comparative market analysis is the same thing as a BPO", I told him incredulously, "What do you want me to do, re-label it?"
PAUSE
"It looks like a CMA. I need a Broker Price Opinion done by a Broker” He choked out.
"I am a Broker. Fine, I will re-label the form with 'BPO' and fax it back to you."
"Thank you, it has been my pleasure speaking with you", he read from his script.
I re-entered my data onto another form, labeled it 'Broker Price Opinion',and faxed it back to HSBC. The next day I called in.
"You are approved. It has been my pleasure working with you",

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

359 Clubhouse Drive, Windswept Estates, Freeport Florida - Short Sale

2010-01-13T10:03:00.002-06:00

Gorgeous Windswept Estates short sale home in Freeport Florida set on golf course. Unique architectural touches, curved designs, archways, dramatic foyer and entrance highlighted with columns. Huge kitchen with extra long counterspace with more cabinets above for plenty of storage, banquet area. Wood laminate floors, high ceilings, corner angled fireplace. Formal dining room with French doors. Spacious screened porch accessible by living room and master bedroom. This golf course home has a great view of the 3rd hole and green. Windswept Dunes golf course is on 700 acres, and is noted as the longest course in the Florida! Windswept amenities include: clubhouse with a pool, tennis courts, volleyball area, and a playground. Added feature: electronic pet fence!

This Windswept estates short sale home is offered at $197,900

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Beachside II 4291, Sandestin Florida - Short Sale Condo

2010-01-13T09:51:00.002-06:00

Beautiful Sandestin short sale condo located on the 9th floor of Beachside II at Sandestin Beach and Golf Club directly on the Gulf of Mexico. The kitchen has granite countertops, recessed lighting and breakfast bar. The master bedroom provides an exquisite view overlooking the gulf. The master bath has a garden tub and a walkin closet. The convenience of the stacked washer and dryer gives you more time to enjoy the beach or relax on the balcony. Sandestin is filled with fun, and you can venture to restaurants, shopping, Baytowne Wharf, Destin Commons and more - all a short distance from this Sandestin short sale condo.

Offered at $529,900

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Santa Rosa Beach Short Sale Approval: Priceless

2010-01-06T14:12:00.001-06:00

This Santa Rosa Beach Florida short sale set the Bank of America record for me. Document after document was requested, faxed and emailed. Phone call after phone call was made. The file was closed and re-opened many times. The buyers threatened to walk time and again. This short sale was on the edge of collapse throughout much of the approval the process, but in the end, success!
First Mortgage: Bank of America, balance $1,300,000
Second Mortgage: Regions, balance $100,000
Sale Price: $850,000 appr
Bank of America Approval Terms: $40,000 promissory note, $30,000 cash contribution
Regions Approval Terms: $15,000 cash contribution
Number of Bank of America negotiators: 5
Number of Regions negotiators: 2
Number of Times Bank of America erroneously closed file: 3
Number of Emails sent: 298
Number of Phone call made: 114
Number of Months for Approval: 8
Seller Relief at Closing: Priceless
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents
Read Destin Short Sale Blog
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and can help you sell or buy a short sale property in and around Destin Florida and the Emerald Coast. Wendy has been interviewed by Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine and Business Week magazine, and has appeared in Florida Realtor Magazine .Call Wendy Rulnick, to list and sell your property on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field. *Figures may be modified slightly to protect data confidentiality.

Worst Short Sale Lenders of the Year Awards

2010-01-06T13:18:00.002-06:00

Each year I give out awards for the worst short sale lenders I have dealt with in the last twelve months. Congratulations to our 2009 winners!

1. PHH - Now Waiting 9 Months for Approval and Counting PHH Mortgage has had a VA Compromise Offer since February 2009 for a Niceville Florida short sale. They were so lame as to do a VA appraisal back in July, then let that expire after six months because they were so slow, and had to order a new one. The sale is still is not approved.
2. USAA will Wait for Short Sale Seller to Die to Go After Probate This Niceville short sale story had a happy ending, but not until after USAA commented they would get their money even if they had to wait for the elderly owner to pass away to get the estate.
3. Saxon Mortgage - Reduces Realtor fee if short sale does not close by approval deadline- for whatever reason- by a full percentage.
4. Green Tree Servicing - Current on Your Mortgage? Short Sale Denied! This short sale servicer denied a Fort Walton Beach short sale because he was current with his payments. They said they would take the "hit" if the seller would take the "hit on his credit". The homeowner drained his entire savings to make payments after spouse was in a serious auto collision.
5. Finally, who else but BANK OF AMERICA, would makes the list - four times over!
Bank of America Approves Short Sale, But Won't Finance Approved Amount Here we find a lender who underappraises a Destin short sale condo for the buyer's mortgage, but on the short sale end- refuses to accept its own appraisal and closes the file! Head spinning yet?
Bank of America - Two Strikes and Buyer Walks As aforementioned transaction goes into round two- Bank of America flubs short sale demands by illiterate negotiator, and refuses to correct error. Short sale denied.
Bank of America Now Wants Your Retirement Account Bank of America is ever so bold now, not even your retirement savings is sacred.
Bank of America - Deficiency Threat Sends Shockwaves The now-infamous Bank of America approval letter has probably caused many a frightened homeowner to pass on a short sale.
Now, that was my list of the TOP worst short sale lenders for 2009, who were yours?
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for Realtors- join us!

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Make Amends with Your Friends - Before It's Too Late

2010-01-04T16:46:00.001-06:00

This week I lost a dear friend to cancer. I had known her for many years, but for two of those years we did not speak. Why not? For a silly reason and a silly misunderstanding. We reconnected when I found myself seated in a restaurant booth next to her and her family. She did not see me, but I recognized her voice immediately. I felt joy in my heart when I heard her. I called over the waiter and asked him to send a bottle of wine to her table. When she got it, she exclaimed “Who sent this?”. I turned around and greeted her. I could see my overture was welcome and she and I planned an evening alone. When we got together we talked about what happened and why we did not speak for two years. It was simply a misunderstanding. It never should have occurred. Thank goodness we reconnected, as we always should have been friends. In the last few years I did not see her much, but she and I had a good connection inside of us.
If there is someone in your life who used to touch your heart, don’t wait. Don’t feud. People come from different places and have different experiences and outlooks. The problem may have nothing to do with you. Forgive them and reconnect, before it is too late.
Wendy Rulnick

Current on Your Mortgage? Short Sale Denied!

2010-01-04T11:25:00.003-06:00

Borrower: Elderly gentleman at retirement age
Property: Florida home that was rented out, tenants vacated
Lender: Green Tree Servicing
Hardship: Major expenses due to spouse being in head-on collision. She will require extensive medical treatment for years and require relocation for appropriate care.
Mortgage status: Payments kept current from savings. Account drained from $35,000 to $3,000.
Seller's Logic to Make Payments:"I am keeping up my end of the mortgage agreement in good faith"
Green Tree Conclusion: Short Sale Denied
Green Tree Investor states:"We are willing to take a hit if you are willing to take a hit on your credit. You are current with your payments. Short sale denied."
You think I am making this up? I am not. This homeowner contacted his lender before asking me to sell his home as a short sale. He was told he could continue to make his payments and his short sale would be considered. Yet, he was denied. Guess what? After I notified him of the denial, he said he will no longer be making his mortgage payments. He held up his end of the bargain as best he could and tried to save his lender the cost of foreclosure. Thankfully, a kind Green Tree representative is going to swat the investor in the head so they LOOK at the situation, as she said, like a "human being, not a computer".
People, do not be alarmed. This is NOT the norm. Most short sale lenders WILL consider a short sale if you are current with your payments IF you have a legitimate hardship. For example, IF you are using your savings to make payments, charging on credit cards, borrowing money, taking funds out of retirement, have a military base relocation, etc. I am neither endorsing nor recommending that you make payments or don’t make payments. That is a personal decision. And it is a tough decision. Do what is right for you.
This elderly gentleman may yet find that there is hope for his situation and that he can avoid foreclosure. He made his payments in good faith and left his family with almost nothing. Perhaps this investor will reconsider his short sale and offer him some good faith, too.
It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Destin FL Real Estate
Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.
Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog
http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents
Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Aurora Loan Services Offer- Too Good To Be True?

2009-12-29T10:53:00.003-06:00

A homeowner recently emailed me quite concerned about a letter she received from Aurora Loan Services. She had a second mortgage with them for $29,700 at 12% interest. She had never been late with her payments and was not selling as a short sale. The Aurora letter stated she could pay her loan off now at about one-third what was owed, and would have no further obligation on the note! Dear Customer:
Aurora Loan Services, as a servicer of your loan, has been authorized by the owner of your second mortgage to offer an opportunity to pay off your loan at a reduced amount.
Upon receipt of the reduced payoff funds in the amount of $10,400, your loan will be considered paid in full. Aurora Loan Services will report your account paid in full to the applicable credit reporting agencies and send the necessary documentation to release the second lien from the public records.
If you elect tp participate in this special payoff offer, Aurora Loan Services will file an IRS 1099-C Form for the amount of debt forgiveness.
Please be advised that certified funds (in the form of a cashier's check or money order) must be received by Aurora Loan Services no later than the close of business on January 29, 2010. If the funds are not received by this date, the offer made in this letter will be rescinded and considered null and void.
Certified payoff proceeds must be made payable to and remitted directly to Aurora Loan Services. If you have any questions, please contact one of our representatives by calling 866-459-3059Is this offer for real? Apparently so, as the borrower called Aurora Loan Services and confirmed it. They said they were doing it "to help people" and their phones were "ringing off the hook". And what a deal - even with tax consequences, it seems to make sense to pay $10,400 and save almost $20,000 in cancelled debt and interest payments! I advised the borrower to consult with an attorney, as she questioned sending in a cashiers check with only the letter to prove her mortgage would be paid in full.
Why is Aurora really doing this? Perhaps the investor on this loan is looking for some quick capital to cover losses? If you have any similar experiences with Auorora Loan Services, report it here.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

The Palms Unit 1307, Destin Short Sale Condo

2009-12-22T15:57:00.003-06:00

Own this fabulous central Destin short sale condo at The Palms! You can pick your choice of on-site fun or pop over to Henderson Beach and the Gulf of Mexico right across Emerald Coast Parkway! The contemporary Palms project includes huge lagoon pool, children's pool, waterfall, tennis, basketball.
Love coffee? "The Beach Trader" is on-site for your cup of Starbucks. Finally, Traders Vics is the place to go for cocktails. Your unit is sleek and stylish, has granite counters, 9' ceilings. Association dues covers wireless internet and utilities.

This Destin short sale is offered at $149,700.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

The Palms Unit 11003, Destin Florida Short Sale Condo

2009-12-22T14:59:00.005-06:00

The Palms of Destin is what everyone raves about!
You can own this almost-new Destin short sale condo and be in the middle of all the excitement! Pool, tennis? Beach, drinks? You can have it all! Unit is close to Henderson Beach and the Gulf of Mexico for swimming and sunning! The contemporary Palms project includes huge lagoon pool, children's pool, waterfall, tennis, basketball. Love coffee? “The Beach Trader" is on-site for your cup of Starbucks. Finally, Traders Vics is the place to go for cocktails. Your unit is sleek and stylish, has granite counters, 9' ceilings. Association dues covers wireless internet and utilities.

This Destin short sale is offered at $173,900.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and “Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Feds Shut Down Peoples First Bank - Was Denying All Short Sales Part of Its Demise?

2009-12-22T14:45:00.004-06:00

About a year ago I wrote about People's First Community Bank in "Short Sale Denied - Despite Cancer Diagnosis". My seller's husband had kidney cancer, and her financial situation had become tenuous. She could no longer afford the payments on her lot near Destin Florida.

I worked to help her do a short sale to avoid foreclosure. When we sent in the contract, People's First told me they "do NOT do short sales, period". I called them and reiterated the diagnosis of kidney cancer, wondering how this woman could keep up with her payments. I also asked, "Why would your company not consider a short sale in this economy?" I was told they had "not given any subprime loans, they were well-capitalized, and when they lent money, they expected to get it paid back". I said, "So you'd rather foreclose?" They said "Yes". When I told them I would write about the story in my blog, they warned me not to.
Today it was announced that the federal Office of Thrift Supervision has closed People's First. A few weeks ago the bank was notified by OTS for Prompt Corrective Action because they were deemed "significantly undercapitalized". Basically, a bank's capitalization rating has to do with its percentage of capital, like cash, as compared to its risk-based assets, such as mortgage loans. According to the FDIC:" Well Capitalized" means a total risk-based capital equal to or greater than 10 percent, "Adequately Capitalized" is a risk-based capitalo ratio equal to or greater than 8 percent. People's First capital ratio has been reported at 2.55.
My question is, could Peoples First's policy of refusing any short sale been part of its downfall? If the bank insisted on foreclosing and repossessing properties, wouldn't that have added to its risk-based assets? If they had allowed short sales, wouldn't their percentage of risk-based assets have been decreased?Finally, wouldn't allowing short sales have helped them live up to their motto, “The Best Bank in the Neighborhood"?

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for Realtors

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". She serves: Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

Does Your MLS Allow Short Sale Games?

2009-12-22T11:03:00.001-06:00

Bravo to the Florida Emerald Coast Association of Realtors for recognizing the risks of multiple offers on short sales. Our MLS requires all short sale contracts to be placed in "Contingent" or "Pending" status. What some agents do to skirt around this rule is submit unsigned "offers" to the short sale lender. That way, they could keep the properties listed in Active status while working multiple short sale offers, since an "offer" is not a "contract".

Here is the new rule from the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors:
"Further clarifying what a short sale listing in Active status represents, the Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors tightened the MLS rules require a status change whenever an offer has been sent for lender approval or while additional offers are being collected. Listing agents are now required to pull a short sale listing while waiting for a response from a lender whether the seller has agreed to the potential buyer’s offer or not. The following wording was added to the Short Sale paragraph in Section 1.2, Note 3 on November 19, 2009:
When an offer is received on a Short Sale listing and that offer is not rejected by the seller within three business days of receipt by the listing brokerage or is sent to one or more lien holders for consideration, that listing may not be left in Active Status.If the seller has accepted the offer – whether or not it is subject to bank approval – the listing must be placed in Contingent or Pending Status. Otherwise, the listing must be Temporarily Withdrawn until all outstanding offers are rejected, the lien holder(s) agrees to the terms of the offer, or until the seller chooses to accept an offer.
The change will prevent several “loop holes” from keeping a listing on the market when offers are being collected by the seller or considered by a lender. Contrary to the belief of some MLS subscribers, most MLS Rules, this one included, may not be superseded by the desires of the seller or by agreement of the buyer and seller. The new rule goes into effect immediately."
I think this is a good move, what say you?

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Destin Real Estate Blog

http://www.shortsalesuperstars.com/ for agents

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy to sell your home or buy a home: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Call Wendy Rulnick, Destin short sale agent, to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field. Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine and Florida Realtor Magazine.

Lot 6 Country Club Dr., Santa Rosa Beach Florida - Off 30-A

2009-12-22T10:15:00.002-06:00

This quarter-acre lot is in Country Club Estates, off 30-A in Santa Rosa Beach Florida. Mostly wooded, it would be the ideal location for your new South Walton home. This Santa Rosa Beach lot is short distance to public beach access, Gulf of Mexico and Gulf Place shopping on 30-A. Lot size approximately 76 x 142. Buy and build your retirement or vacation home in South Walton!
Offered at $59,900

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

St. Martin Beachwalk Villas #221, Destin Florida Condo for Sale

2009-12-18T16:36:00.001-06:00

This Destin condo in St. Martin Beachwalk Villas is centrally located on the beach side of highway 98, you can walk to Big Kahuna's Water Park, Mellow Mushroom Pizza, the grocery or convenience store if needed. A short board walk takes you to Sugar Sand Beaches and Emerald Waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This Destin condo will make a great vacation rental or a place to call home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a split floor plan. The living area and master bedroom open to the balcony overlooking the community pool and a peek of Gulf Views from the Balcony and south windows of the unit. St Martin Beachwalk is a quaint Beach Community for a vacation or your home. It is also located 10 minutes from Destin Commons, Henderson Beach, and golf galore!
Offered at $199,900.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Destin FL Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

1227 Quail Ridge, Quiet Wood Subdivision, Destin FL - Short Sale Home with Inground Pool

2009-12-18T16:17:00.003-06:00

Spacious Destin short sale home,1227 Quail Ridge, on cul-de-sac in Quiet Wood subdivision with half-acre lot! Improvements include tile in main living areas, granite counters in kitchen, roof new in 2004 with dimensional shingles. Inground pool with new paper filter, gazebo. Gazebo with red and white grapes, orange, lemon and fig trees. This Destin short sale property needs some work, but with a pool, large lot and great location, this home has unbeatable features!
Offered at $199,900

It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Search All Destin Florida Real Estate

Destin Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Destin Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204
Email Wendy to sell your home or buy a home: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com
Call Wendy Rulnick, Destin real estate agent, to list and sell your home or condo or help you buy a home or rental property on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field. Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and can help you sell or buy a short sale property in and around Destin Florida and the Emerald Coast.

36 Highland Dr., Fort Walton Beach Florida- Short Sale - Bring Your Toolbox!

2009-12-14T11:30:00.004-06:00

This Fort Walton Beach short sale home needs your TLC, but it has a large yard and is on a quiet side street. Some plumbing newer, two outbuildings, A/C new with some warranty left and transferable, dishwasher broken (seller to repair), garbage disposal loud, newer roof with dimensional shingles, sprinkler system (2 broken heads), lawn pump. One broken window, one ceiling fan does not work. This Fort Walton Beach Florida short sale home is a quick jaunt to Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, Okaloosa Island beach, the Santa Rosa Mall, restaurants or the parks!
Roll up your sleeves, bring your toolbox, and make this Fort Walton Beach short sale house your home!
Offered at $89,900.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.

Fort Walton Beach Real Estate

Fort Walton Beach Short Sales & Pre Foreclosure Help.

Read Wendy's Fort Walton Beach Real Estate Blog

Call toll-free 1-877-ITS-WNDY (1-877-487-9639) or local 850-650-7883 ext 204

Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy is a short sale and pre-foreclosure specialist and has been featured in "Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine" and "Florida Realtor Magazine". Call Wendy Rulnick, Broker/Owner,to list and sell your home or condo on the Emerald Coast of Florida in Walton, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa County- Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Crestview, Rosemary Beach, Mary Esther, Shalimar, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field.

HAFA and Short Sales- How Will It Affect You?

2009-12-10T16:26:00.010-06:00

As you may have heard on the news, the U.S. Treasury is trying to make short sales, well, shorter! Many homeowners and buyers in the Destin and Fort Walton Beach areas have been plagued for waiting months for short sale approvals. Realtors are at their wits end. Lenders are overloaded with requests. Waiting five months for a short sale approval is becoming the norm. The new program that is supposed to help is called "Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program" or "HAFA".

What Treasury is trying to do is help streamline the short sale process by suggesting guidelines to the participating lenders. That's "suggestions" and "guidelines". That does not equal "requirements" in the way I read it.

Here is a summary of the proposed short sale changes, who is eligible, and what you might expect to change if you do qualify for the HAFA program. Remember, I am condensing here and pointing out what might be important to you, the homeowner, as it relates to short sales. There are many details, requirements and forms that make up this new program.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?
You might be eligible for HAFA if your lender participates in the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP), and your mortgage is not underwritten by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. HAMP offers you the opportunity for assistance by lowering your payments or delaying payments to keep you in your home. You must meet the HAMP requirements as follows, to be part of HAFA, whether or not you choose a modification.

These qualifications are:
1) You have missed payments or are about to default
2) The home is your primary residence
3) You got your primary mortgage before Jan. 1, 2009 and your balance is less than $729,750
4) Your monthly mortgage payment is greater than 31% of your gross income

The HAFA Supplemental Directive states that the servicers (your lenders) have the "option to determine the extent to which short sales or deeds-in-lieu will be offered". So this does not look like a slam dunk, guys!

Expanding on that, HAFA states that a participating lender must follow its investor guidelines to create their own policy, with criteria for your eligibility to include: how cooperative and "motivated" you are, the amount of the loss on your mortgage, and local market conditions, among other things. In addition, HAFA states that it is up to the servicer and investor to decide if allowing you to be in this special short sale program is in their best interest. That tells me they have a lot of leeway in deciding if you will benefit from HAFA at all.

THE GOOD NEWS if you get a short sale through this program, there can be no deficiency judgment later! That will help many leery Bank of America short sale sellers, whose approval letters reference the right to seek a deficiency in the future. More good news- your lender may not ask you for a promissory note or a cash contribution if they participate in HAFA and you do a short sale. More "positives"…

POSITIVE: If you are eligible for this program, and your lender participates, you must be given the chance to do a short sale or deed-in-lieu prior to the lender foreclosing.

POSITIVE: The program says you do not have to resubmit your financial paperwork for the short sale (a big pain for many short sale sellers) after you have already provided it for HAMP.

POSITIVE: Your lender will determine the acceptable net from your anticipated short sale prior to you participating in the program. This should save time versus a typical short sale, where the lender determines if a contract is acceptable after it is submitted for consideration. The minimum proceeds will be stated in terms of actual dollar amount, percentage of market value or percentage of your list price.

POSITIVE: Your lender will state what closing costs they will pay for the sale in advance. This will save contracts where the buyer asks for too much in closing costs- no wasted negotiating.

POSITIVE: You will receive $1500 relocation incentive upon closing your short sale.

*** OTHER THINGS you need to know:

You cannot remain in the home as a tenant after closing.

You must not be related to the buyer (arms length).

You cannot earn a real estate commission if you are a licensee and sell the home yourself.

You may be required to make payments deemed "affordable" by HAFA until your property is sold. This is based on a calculation of your income and expenses.

You must maintain the property and pay association dues until it is sold.

The servicer will pay your junior lienholder up to $3000 (or 3% of the junior balance) to complete the short sale, but YOU must take care of other impediments to selling, for example, an IRS tax lien or a judgment which might affect your sale. Your senior lienholder gets a monetary incentive when your junior lienholder waives the right to a future deficiency. This part of the program "may" inspire better terms from your second mortgage holder. NOTE: HAFA does not state this as a requirement, though, so you may still have a responsibility to pay your junior lienholder cash or a promissory note if they agree to the short sale!

If you have mortgage insurance (MI) on your note, the MI company must agree to waive its right to a cash contribution from you or note or you won't qualify for HAFA.

MORE PROCEDURES: When you receive an offer on your property, you will have three business days, with your Realtor’s assistance, to get a copy of the contract, buyer pre-approval, and junior lien documentation to your lender. If you are using the standard HAFA program with a pre-approved net price (SSA), you should receive an approval or rejection with 10 business days, or about three weeks of receipt. However, if you have not gone through the HAMP modification program and standard SSA (sorry I am throwing in acronyms again), then your approval time will be lengthened. In this situation (alternate RASS), the program requires 14 more days to allow you to decide if you want a modification (well, of course at this point you don't or you would have already done so, right), and for you to provide all the financial documentation necessary.

Finally, don't expect to get off the hook with credit reporting or tax obligations from your short sale. Even with HAFA, your short sale will be reported "account paid in full for less than full balance" and you should consult with an accountant to determine any tax liabilities from your cancelled debt.

There is a lot to this new HAFA program, which officially starts on April 5, 2010 (although your lender may participate sooner). How many people it will actually help is questionable. If it does work, it will speed up your short sale. If it does not, there are still many options available to you.

It's Wendy!
Wendy Rulnick, Broker, CRP, CRS, GRI, ABR Rulnick Realty, Inc.
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