Pat Pribisko's Discussions

(My response is  as an agent (but I am also an attorney.))It depends.If you are a FSBO (For Sale By Owner) Seller, I suggest that you consult an attorney before you advertise your home for sale.If you are using a Seller's Agent, a Seller can wait to consult an attorney until you receive an offer to purchase.

Make sure your Seller's Agent is marketing your home as A SHORT SALE THAT LENDER HAS APPROVED!Many buyers refuse to look at short sales, because it is known that many short sales take a long time to close.  This is especially true for first time home buyers who are looking at a deadline of 11/30/09 for closing, to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit.

Contact a local Realtor to do a Comparative Market Analysis (often called a "CMA" for you.

Ask your lender for a copy of your appraisal (you are paying for it as part of your refi charges).  Once you obtain your appraisal, you'll understand how that appraiser arrived at his/her numbers.