Problem: The short sale lender, Chase, has called you and left a rambling voice mail. There are three items you are required to get from your seller, or they will "close the file”.

Your Task: Tell your short sale seller what updated or missing documents you need to accomplish the mission.

Your Options?

EMAIL VERSION 1:

Dear Sally,

Chase left me an urgent voice mail that you need to get us updated documents in order for them to complete their review of your short sale. You already sent us a hardship letter, but it needs to be re-dated to be within 90 days of today per their company requirements. We also need two of your most recent bank statements – we have June and July 2009 from Valiant Savings, those are now too old to meet requirements. Also, you did provide us with your 2009 tax returns, but Chase is requesting your signature for purposes of authentication. We are sorry to inconvenience you, but your expeditious attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

EMAIL VERSION 2:

Dear Sally,

Chase requires the following items to complete your short sale review:

1. Re-date your hardship letter with the current date (copy attached)

2. Your last two months bank statements

3. Sign your 2009 tax returns (copy attached)

Please fax to me as soon as possible.

Which version will get the BETTER (quicker) response? Which email will get you the most ACCURATE response?

OK, remember you are a seller in the midst of a short sale. You are probably bleary-eyed by now with all the document requirements. In fact, you’ve never provided as much paperwork before in your life, even when you got the loan in the first place. You hate all this darn faxing, writing and signing, and you are pretty confused.

My advice when conveying complicated and endless bank demands? Keep it simple, itemize and get to your point. Result? Faster short sale approvals and happier sellers.

It's Wendy!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.

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