Yes, I had a seller who had never missed a payment, had great credit and income and the sale was approved. Reason; she was located to a different state because of her place of employment.
You don't have to have the horror story to complete a successful short sale, but there must be a serious reason for the possible hardship or potential hardship. Some examples are;
1. Military
2. Employment
3. Death
4. Health related
5. Divorce
Remember, you as the listing agent must find the true reason why they are selling there home hoping to get a short sale. If they can't prove why this home must be sold via hardship letter, financials, etc., the banks wont approve. - Tue Jul 21 2009, 10:18