MS,
If you choose NOT to use a buyer's agent I say beware! Make sure YOU know the process, as well as what you'll need to do and timelines to follow to get them done. Although the listing agent speaks to the negotiator the contract still has terms that need to be met by you... Using the right buyer's agent can only help you NOT hurt you!
Mark Zabilowicz
Tampa Realtor
813-849-8554

My answer would be "it depends." Is the listing agent a short sale specialist? Has the agent successfully closed short sales? Is he/she doing their own negotiations with the bank? What is their success rate? If you have identified a property you would like to purchase, the best way to ascertain the property is to work with a professional who is well versed in the short sale process or uses a loss mitigator as part of their team. Interview your agent(s) and ask for references. The short sale process is lengthy and a strong negotiator is key to helping you succeed.

Carla Rayman
Prudential Palms Realty
Sarasota, Florida
Carla@CarlaRayman.com
941 724 0519

Hello Ms. Home Buyer,
As always buying a Home is a big commitment. You should always do your research when it comes to purchasing your future home. I would advise to consult another buying agent to find out what your options are. What kind of programs are out there. You already know that the home has been on the market for awhile. I would find out if there has been any offer and if so is the Realtor only working with one offer or multiple offers. Has the current short sale been approved by the bank. If you do decide to put an offer make sure it is the right decision for you. You do have options and you should definitely explore them talk to someone that you are comfortable with and who knows the market. So that you can make an informed decision Good Luck I wish you the best.

Kindest Regards,
Cassie Schaaf
Realtor
Century 21 Beggins Enterprises
Apollo Beach, FL 33572
Cell (813)267-5985

MS,

It is not a foolish choice by any means! As a matter of fact, who knows that property better than the "Listing Agent"!

I would suggest meeting with the agent first to make sure this is the person you would like to work with through the "Short-Sale" process. Also, some lender's DO NOT allow "dual-agencies" through this type of transaction. The Listing Agent would be able to advise you on this.

The only guarantee you probably WON'T have is to expedite the process. Especially if this is an experienced short sale agent. Unfortunately, the banks still control this process more than agents and homeowner's would like.

If that's your only concern about putting in an offer on this property, you could always ask a friend or family member for an agent referral.

Best of Luck!

I usually encourage buyer's to get their own agent-- but I think that using the listing agent in a short sale can be a great idea. The deal seems to stay together that way. The listing agent automatically represents the seller, but ultimately it's up to the seller's lender to approve the sale. So the debate over dual agency is not as big a deal.

If you go with the listing agent, have her prepare a buyer CMA for you. Find out how much experience she has with short sales too-- If she doesn't know what she is doing, there is a good chance it might not work out. This can help ensure you are making the right offer on the property. If you opt not to use the listing agent, find one who has experience in short sales!

Be prepared to wait! Educate yourself as best as you can no matter what you decide to do, and be sure your agent is persistent.

Good Luck!