christopher Burns's Q&A

Agreed. The info on public records may not be completely accurate. This is why Zillow and other online valuation sites are not as reliable as an appraisal where someone can physically inspect the property and list it correctly.You can update Zillow with your information so that it's more accurate as the above poster mentioned.

there is also the HAMP program. ALL lenders have plenty of options to help you modify your mortgage loan right now. If you provide the right information and make the numbers work.. there is no reason for the lender to not modify loans.

You want to not only submit a "reasonable" offer to the seller, but you need to show them that you are already pre-approved for your financing. This will be key in getting the bank to accept a short sale. With your offer, Pre-approval info, and supporting information about the comparable sales in the area supporting your offer... the bank will most likely accept a short sale so you can buy the property.

Agreed, as long as there will be a mortgage on the property it will not be a "cash" offer. The underwriting time frame will be much quicker with a hard money loan, but it will still be financing the property.