http://www.trulia.com/profile/cape_estero_fortmyers_sanibel/The latest answers submitted by Megan Eister to questions asked on Trulia Voicesen-ushttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/My_husband_and_I_are_trying_to_sell_our_MN_hous-357304Answer by Megan Eister: The market is good here for Buyers, but Buyers should be realistic. It is tough competition on the homes that are priced right. I have come across some buyers that make the mistake of thinking they are the only buyer in this Buyer's market. You can bet there are multiple offers on the homes that priced to sell. If you are coming here to buy, you definately need to have your ducks in a row to buy the home you want! Some in your situation, are buying now (with interest rates low and prices lower) and placing renters in the property until they can sell their home and/or retire. I would suggest this if you could afford both houses, without the rental income. Financing is available and interest rates are low. However, it is certainly harder to qualify for a loan. While your credit score is great, the lenders will be looking at your income and reserves. You can search all properties in Southwest Florida by using the link below. Click on the link, pick the city, then click on your price range! All the best, MeganFri, 2 Mar 2012 07:00:03 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Property_QandA/I_am_interested_in_this_quaint_little_house_Te-357692Answer by Megan Eister: HomePath is a loan program that offers pretty good terms. 3% down, no appraisal (saves you at least $350) and no monthly mortgage insurance (that saves you hundreds). However, it must be your primary residence, too. The neighborhood can be viewed on google maps (just to give you an idea of the area) and you can check crime stats here http://www.sheriffleefl.org/main/index.php?r=crimeActivity/index The home has been listed since December, which is a long time for a foreclosure sale. I have not physically seen the home. It is also wood frame construction. In Florida, that type of construction is not as desirable as concrete block. If you want to see the property when you are in town let me know.Fri, 2 Mar 2012 06:24:18 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Property_QandA/Should_I_become_a_real_estate_broker_-199389Answer by Megan Eister: Hi Amy, I would highly suggest getting your License. Even after becoming licensed, if you decide it is more beneficial for you to use a REALTOR that be your own REALTOR, you will learn a wealth of information. I have a few agents on my team that buy/sell strictly for themselves. I would be happy to help you with the process of licensing. Also, you will have to disclose on every transaction that you are a Licensed Realtor. Please email me if you have any more questions. Truly, Megan Eister Broker/President, Florida WestShore Realty, Inc. www.floridawestshorerealty.com megan.floridawestshore@gmail.comSun, 12 Feb 2012 14:51:35 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Agent2Agent/Lack_of_communication_and_executed_contract_from_s-347814Answer by Megan Eister: I think "executed" means the same thing nation wide. I believe the FAR/BAR contract determines the effective date to be when the contract was executed. Certain Bank Addedums can change the meaning of the effective date. (For instance, the effective date is when the Buyer signs) The "effective date" helps to calculate the time periods for the transaction.Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:30:58 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Agent2Agent/Lack_of_communication_and_executed_contract_from_s-347814Answer by Megan Eister: I should use spell check: Here is they typo: Also, interestingly enough, Banks can withdraw their offer to SELL the property whenever they wish with no liability whatsoever. What IF all Sellers could do that????Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:12:31 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Agent2Agent/Lack_of_communication_and_executed_contract_from_s-347814Answer by Megan Eister: I have seen on some REO contracts where the bank wants the inspection period to start before the Buyer receives an executed contract. It is on the first page of the bank addendum. The bank defines the effective date of the contract as the date the buyer signs the bank addendum. WOW! One of my agents was in a similar situation. The Buyer did the inspection after we received the executed contract. The Buyer found severe property issues and wanted to cancel. The bank's Agent said the Buyer was in default because the inspection period had expired. The Buyer had missed that the bank redefined the effective date! The Buyer ended getting the escrow returned for another reason, but it was certainly unsettling. Also, interestingly enough, Banks can withdraw their offer to SELL the property whenever they wish with no liability whatsoever. What is all Sellers could do that????? CHAOS! It seems that a foreclosure purchase is not a sure thing until the transactions closes. Oh wait, I have seen some Buyers close on property to find out months later, they still don't have clear title to the property! I think the short answer is to always recommend the Buyer seeks legal advice before signing that bank addendum! Best wishes with your sale!Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:10:29 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/my_credit_is_not_that_good_am_i_wasting_my_time_l-342713Answer by Megan Eister: YES, you are wasting time. Don't feel bad, plenty of Buyers make the mistake of looking around without knowing how much they can afford and if they can even qualify for a loan. As suggested, you should talk to a Lender. I would talk to more than one mortgage officer, until you know exactly what you have to do to make your loan happen. Also, there are millions of people in America who have had recent credit issues due to the recession. Don't give up on your wish to be Home Buyer. If you talk to the right Lender, he or she should tell you what you need to do to qualify for a loan and give you specific steps to follow. You could qualify now, or it may take 6 months or 5 years. In any case, wishing or wondering won't be enough. You have to take action to make it happen. Here are some useful links: http://www.hud.gov/buying/loans.cfm (Home Buying via FHA) http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre13.shtm (Do it yourself Credit Repair) I hope you find the answers you seek! MeganMon, 2 Jan 2012 13:43:58 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Investment_advice_needed-338377Answer by Megan Eister: Hello, I have been helping some investors buy Condos in gated communities with low HOA fees. Renters love the amenities and the units rent quickly. It is also easier for the investor to manage (if he does not hire a property manager) because the Association takes care of many issues. Plus, the condos easily transition into seasonal rentals if you furnish them. Bottom line is investors are doing well across the board. You can search all Homes and Condos in Southwest Florida from Cape Coral to Naples by using the link below. We offer Property Management services, too.Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:04:42 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Selling/My_real_estate_agent_is_not_doing_anything_I_did_-338778Answer by Megan Eister: I hate to sound like a pessimist and I don't want to offend anyone who thinks they are perfect, but the PERFECT Agent does not exist. Most of "us" strive to give our customers and clients the best service possible. However, if one is looking for perfection, he or she may not be happy with anyone. Especially, in this market, "Price" is the motivating factor. Buyers are mostly looking for a "deal.” Thanks to the internet, Buyers have more information than ever before to help them decide if they are getting a "deal". You may be able to squeeze a few extra bucks for presentation, and even more for location, but all in all, your home should sell if priced correctly. Photos are a gateway to the Buyer and truly important, but the true worth of a good REALTORŪ becomes evident during price strategizing, negotiating the contract, and taking you through the entire process to the closing day. There is a reason why the company “Buy Owner” filed for bankruptcy. There is also a reason the percentage of closed FSBO sales is much lower than a REALTORŪ assisted sale. There are a number of obstacles to a successful closing. Taking pictures and describing the property is just a portion of a major process. Sellers deserve hardworking, go getting, and knowledgeable REALTORSŪ. Good luck and I hope you sell your home. (Also, Jesse is right) MeganMon, 12 Dec 2011 06:02:04 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_am_looking_to_purchase_a_sq_ft_plot_in_Cape_Cor-336781Answer by Megan Eister: Are you planning on building the home yourself or do you simply want to use your own drawings? Perhaps you should take your plans to a few builders and have them bid the project. The restrictions are available on the web site Mark listed a few answers down the page. We have a new home listed on Gulf Access that was built in 2011 for $379,900. The builder was able to build it very quickly and he did a good job. If you think about it, most homes in the Cape that are for sale are 5 years or older now. I wouldn't be surprised to see a continued up tick in building permits. Best wishes.Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:10:36 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/how_is_the_job_situation_in_cape_coral_fl_-264142Answer by Megan Eister: Here is an update on the jobs situation in Lee County. (It's better than last year and predicted to keep improving)Sat, 19 Nov 2011 06:55:34 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/how_is_the_job_situation_in_cape_coral_fl_-264142Answer by Megan Eister: The potential worst case scenario, you will have to commute, Marlene. The medical field, as indicated below, has been a consistent job source in Lee County, Florida. There was article posted today in the News-Press that mentions more opportunity for the medical field. I attached it below. As Danielle mentioned, the new VA hospital will have an incredible impact in Cape Coral. Cape Coral has also developed incentives to attract more medical opportunities to the City. In any case, the medical field is WIDE open in Lee County. I really like Bill's answer (from Sarasota), too. Welcome to Cape Coral! Here is the article in the News-Press http://www.news-press.com/article/20110125/BUSINESS/110124051/1014/news0128?GID=1Ui4fZo6uVhAglDy1QkWsSkPN8eaw+vj4FMuvY9PU84%3DTue, 25 Jan 2011 16:39:12 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/My_wife_and_I_are_loking_to_relocate_to_the_cape_c-310695Answer by Megan Eister: Please look at this listing! This home is a bank approved short sale on intersecting canals in the Southwest Cape! No Lock, No Bridges...direct access near the area of Cape Harbour. http://www.floridawestshorerealty.idxco.com/idx/7177/details.php?idxID=016&listingID=201038773Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:40:50 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/My_wife_and_I_are_loking_to_relocate_to_the_cape_c-310695Answer by Megan Eister: Hi Don, I have a BRAND new home listed that will be finished in about 60 days! It is located in the Southwest Cape off Beach Parkway. Granite, tile throughout, pool, screened lanai, and MORE! You would be surprised to learn that new construction is priced well and very appealing! There is no chance of defective drywall and the homes are built to the latest codes. We specialize in Cape Coral Waterfront homes and can help you with your search. If you would like to view some of our waterfront listings, you may at www.floridawestshorerealty.com. You can save listings that you like, request information about listings, and schedule showings. You can always just email us your requirements, and we will send you listings for your review, simply click on this link and email your needs. Be sure to include your boating requirements (length of boat, draft, etc...) http://www.floridawestshorerealty.com/contact.phpSat, 13 Aug 2011 18:06:15 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/General_Area/we_re_looking_at_Cape_Coral_for_vaca_home_retire-324790Answer by Megan Eister: Hi Fran, What is your budget? I live in the Cape and love it, but it if you want to be close to the beach and if you can afford it, you should look in Fort Myers. I attached a link for a map search....Just pan around in the areas that are close to the beach and enter your price range. Feel free to contact an agent at Florida WestShore Realty at 877-828-8455. We serve both Cape Coral and Fort Myers.Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:33:38 PSThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_m_a_buyer_with_a_closing_date_set_on_a_condo_p-296951Answer by Megan Eister: Hello, Typically, in a short sale situation, the Seller can not afford to pay HOA fees that are in arrears. When your offer was submitted with the HUD to the lender, hopefully a good estimate of the arrears were included on the HUD to be paid by the lender. To get an exact estimate, the Seller would have to order an estoppel. The estoppel costs money, so an estimate is sometimes used in the beginning of the process. Usually, the Bank will determine if they are willing to pay the entire amount owed to the HOA or a portion of the amount. Whomever is negotiating the Sellers short sale will find out if the HOA is willing to accept the Lender's offer of payment. If the HOA refuses the Lender's offer, then it may be up to the Buyer to pay the difference (usually by a raise in the purchase price) Properties that are subject to HOA fees add another important element in a short sale negotiation. Good Luck with your purchase!Sat, 22 Oct 2011 18:47:40 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/I_thinking_about_moving_to_Ft_Myers_in_a_Pulte_de-310837Answer by Megan Eister: Hi Tera I forgot to mention that the Developer is offering a "Vacation Getaway Program". A visitor can live like a resident in the Development from $99.00 a day (restrictions apply and rates subject to change). If one likes to Golf and is looking for a home or condo in Fort Myers, he or she may want to take advantage of this offer and check out this beautiful community. On our staff, we have a team of Golf Course Experts that have sold several new constructions homes and resales in the Plantation. We could show you both resales and brand new developer product. We can help you make the right decision on whether to build, buy new, or buy resale in the community. If you would like to take advantage of the Vacation Getaway Program and receive the latest floor plans, pricing, and inventory (as they change frequently) please contact me at megan.floridawestshore@gmail.com Please feel free to view all the Golf Course communities in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Naples at www.thegolfcourseexperts.com. Happy Home Hunting, Megan Eister Broker/Owner, Florida WestShore RealtyFri, 21 Oct 2011 05:41:12 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/I_thinking_about_moving_to_Ft_Myers_in_a_Pulte_de-310837Answer by Megan Eister: I agree, I would move to The Plantation, too! The clubhouse is gorgeous. I love that the community offers two lifestyles, Bridgetown and Somerset. You can view listings in both areas by using this link: http://www.floridawestshorerealty.com/neighborhood_details.php?nID=45280. Our team, The Golf Course Experts at Florida WestShore Realty, can assist you with finding the right Golf Community for you, from Fort Myers to Naples. Please email me and I will have a Golf Course Expert call you. My email is megan.floridawestshore@gmail.com.Thu, 13 Oct 2011 07:32:48 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Rentals/I_am_moving_to_fort_myers_the_st_of_Nov_and_I_am_h-326305Answer by Megan Eister: You can search all rentals in Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, and Naples by using this link: http://www.floridawestshorerealty.idxco.com/idx/7177/advancedSearch.php?pt=rnt By using this link, you can schedule showings online and request more information on properties. We have a few good Rental agents on staff that can assist you. Good Luck! Megan Eister Broker, Florida WestShore RealtyFri, 14 Oct 2011 06:09:13 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/I_am_in_the_middle_of_a_short_sale_amp_i_was_jus-323948Answer by Megan Eister: Have you submitted a complete package to your Lender or is the home simply listed for sale as a short sale? In my experience, the following has been observed: 1. It is typical for a short sale situation to go into foreclosure. 2. The Lender will allow the foreclosure process to continue (while a short sale is being negotiated) up until the sale date. 3. It is unlikely that the Lender will stop the foreclosure process because you are in the middle of the short sale. 4. It is LIKELY that your Agent or whomever is in contact with your negotiator can help postpone the sale date, provided that you have a complete package submitted. (Offer, HUD, Short Sale Package from Lender). I would respond as mentioned to go on record that you are in the short sale process. You could do it yourself or hire an attorney. If you need a few attorney names that I have found to be very reasonably priced, please email me at megan.floridawestshore@gmail.com Good luck! MeganFri, 14 Oct 2011 06:03:26 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/As_a_N_C_resident_about_to_close_on_a_Florida_Con-291075Answer by Megan Eister: A common Purchase Contract that is used when buying a short sale, is the FAR BAR "AS IS" Residential Contract For Sale and Purchase. On line 489, it states in BOLD for the Buyer or Seller to seek Legal advice if not fully understood. A REALTOR can not practice law and advise our customers. If you feel you understand the documents and contract, then you may feel comfortable closing without an attorney to assist the process. Most Buyers do not hire an attorney, in my experience. However, If I were a Buyer, and I was paying CASH for a condo, I may be likely to hire an attorney to review the contract, the HOA docs, and the Title Commitment. If I were a Buyer and I was getting a mortgage, I may feel somewhat comfortable that the mortgage underwriter would likely identify issues that may not be readily visible. If you haven't seen a Loan Commitment lately, (they are far and few between, lol! ) there are a million (being dramatic) items that the underwriter wants clarified. Please note that in my experience, an attorney usually can not change anything in the mortgage document, unless it was interest rate or term (length of the loan) error. I do not think having an attorney review the mortgage and note would likely result in a change in the documents. Be sure that you check your interest rate and terms of the loan at the closing. I hope that helps you with your decision. If you need a good attorney, email me and I will send you a few names. Megan Eister Broker, Florida WestShore RealtyThu, 13 Oct 2011 08:03:24 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Rentals/Relocating_with_family_to_Ft_Myers-324430Answer by Megan Eister: You can search properties for rent on my website. Our website features interactive maps that will show schools nearby, shopping and more. It will also let you take a "Bird's Eye View" of the neighborhood. Click on this link to search for rentals in all of Southwest Florida, including Naples by using this link: http://www.floridawestshorerealty.idxco.com/idx/7177/advancedSearch.php?pt=rnt Good Luck!Tue, 4 Oct 2011 11:11:43 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Looking_for_lease_to_own_purchase_option_or_owner-324873Answer by Megan Eister: Hi There, Here are some homes that offer Lease Options in your requested zip codes. Click on th link below, or copy and paste in your browser. http://www.floridawestshorerealty.idxco.com/i/7177/Naples_Lease_Options_single_family If you send me an email at megan.floridawestshore@gmail.com, and include more information (how much can you put down, what is a comfortable monthly payment, when do you think you can qualify for financing) I can point you in the right direction. All the best, Megan Eister Broker, Florida WestShore RealtyTue, 4 Oct 2011 11:06:44 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/removed-325311Answer by Megan Eister: If you send me your address via email, I can send you a map of the waterways. Megan Eister www.floridawestshorerealty.com megan.floridawestshore@gmail.comTue, 4 Oct 2011 10:56:09 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/removed-325311Answer by Megan Eister: Did you buy on a canal in the Northwest, or do you need to use the boat ramp? Welcome to Cape Coral! It is a great community for boaters. Truly, Megan Eister Search all Waterfront Foreclosures, Short Sales, ReSales, and New Construction at www.floridawestshorerealty.comTue, 4 Oct 2011 10:54:20 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/Just_found_mold_from_a_bathroom_leak_in_the_short_-288795Answer by Megan Eister: Dorothy, What did you decide to do? If you get a minute, update us! Thanks for your time. Megan Eister Broker, Florida Westshore RealtyTue, 4 Oct 2011 09:19:36 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Foreclosure/Just_found_mold_from_a_bathroom_leak_in_the_short_-288795Answer by Megan Eister: It may depend on your original offer. Were you already asking for a steep discount? If the bank already approved your offer price, then you may have to submit mulitple bids with your request to lower the sale price. If the bank has not approved your offer, and you feel this new information should change the sales price, you should send in your new term with estimates right away. The bank may or may not approve the sale, or they may approve it at a higher sales price. The answer is "Yes" you can ask the bank the lower the price, whether they will is another matter. On another note, it is very common to stop the foreclosure process with a short sale submission and avoid foreclosure. Anyone facing foreclosure should inquire about the short sale process. Good Luck, and be sure to get that mold situation resolved ASAP!Sat, 24 Sep 2011 06:29:16 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_am_looking_to_purchase_a_sailboat_access_home_in-313150Answer by Megan Eister: For anyone looking for a sailboat access home, I have a great listing at 1403 SW 52nd Ter. It is a short sale, but I am working very closely with the Bank and I believe this will get approved. The home is on an intersecting canal and has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. There is no lock or lift! Head down the canal and you can be to Tarpon Point or Cape Harbour in minutes. The home does need about $40,000 in updates and TLC, but at $325,000 it may be worth it to put a little love into the home. The location is superb for sailboat access to the Gulf. Here is the link to view the home! http://www.floridawestshorerealty.idxco.com/idx/7177/details.php?idxID=016&listingID=201038773Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:59:19 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/I_am_looking_to_purchase_a_sailboat_access_home_in-313150Answer by Megan Eister: Hello, My office serves both Cape Coral and Fort Myers. We know both cities very well. It is typical for us to work with Buyers that have not been to the area. We can help you and your wife see it all! If you would like to go to my website www.floridawestshorerealty.com, you can search homes and save homes in your listing manager. You can also inquire on listings and request showings. Whether it is homes or condos, Cape Coral or Fort Myers...we can help! Our office line is toll free 877-828-8455. We have several agents that would be willing to help you! I would be happy to guide you in the right direction. Sincerely, Megan Eister Broker, Florida WestShore RealtySat, 13 Aug 2011 17:57:31 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/what_criteria_is_needed_to_do_a_short_sale_Do_you-322149Answer by Megan Eister: That is good to know Terry! Thank you for answering. All of my short sales this year were already in default, and the last time I had a situation where the owner wanted to do a short sale that was not in default was awhile ago. We were told then they couldn't do anything if the Borrower was making payments. Again, thanks, the more information we can share the better.Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:53:04 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/what_criteria_is_needed_to_do_a_short_sale_Do_you-322149Answer by Megan Eister: In my experience, you have to prove you can not make payments and you have to actually not make your payment. Connie, I am going to ask a question within your question ( I hope this doesn't offend you or anyone in the forum, but I am rather curious) "Has anyone had a short sale close where the owner continued to make payments?"Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:43:57 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Another_short_sale_question_If_bank_agrees_to_sho-321961Answer by Megan Eister: I blogged about the short sale inventory being quite less than what the public believes it to be. I blogged about the subject in June 2011: http://www.investinleecounty.com/2011/06/cape-coral-real-estate-cape-coral-real.html One of the issues is the public doesn't understand that active contingent basically means "under contract". Gary may have found that out through his research. Whether it is right or wrong, I mark my short sale listings as Pending once I submit an offer to lender. At that point, there are no more showings on the property, either. I understand that Active Contingent Short Sale means the Seller will still show the property and take back up offers. If you are searching on a Real Estate website there is usually a field marked "Status" that allows you to filter out the Active Contingent Short Sales. Make sure the status is Active only and then you won't get the Active Contingent homes in your results. My company website allows viewers to search Active Short Sales only. It will give a clearer view of what is really available.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:32:51 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Another_short_sale_question_If_bank_agrees_to_sho-321961Answer by Megan Eister: Hi again! I think Terry and few others made a good point to highlight the fact that most agents only present 1 offer to lender for approval at a time, which is usually what is required by the lender. Back up offers can be welcomed, but usually don't make it to the Negotiators eyes.Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:15:56 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Another_short_sale_question_If_bank_agrees_to_sho-321961Answer by Megan Eister: It would be wonderful if we could get a target price in advanced from the lender in order to market the home. As mentioned, it is a negotiation tool for the Lender. In the past, I have submitted offers that I felt were more than fair and the Lender said "No." Then the home goes to foreclosure and the home sells for less! During the last year, that situation has happened less frequently. The current short sale process allows the Real Estate agent to set the price (with the Owners in agreement). As Short Sale listing agent, I try and set the price just above the 30 day liquidation value. I advise buyers to offer just below the 30 day liquidation value. When a home is already priced to sell and the Buyer comes in 20 to 30 percent less than asking (in my opinion) it is a huge waste of time. "But I am paying Cash" says Buyer. Yeah, you and the other 75% percent of Buyers in Lee County. LOL! Low Ball Listing Prices and Low Ball offers only disrupts the short sale process. Determining the value is very important as a Seller and a Buyer.Mon, 19 Sep 2011 07:04:25 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/can_i_buy_a_house_and_short_sale_mine_-122357Answer by Megan Eister: I am going to answer this question, even though it is over 2 years old. I think if you asked the same question today, you would get less bashing than you did back then! The answer is yes you can buy a house a short sale yours. To do it immediately, you would need to be able to qualify for another mortgage and the lender will consider your current mortgage, too. If you do not qualify for a loan, then you would have to pay cash. If you short sale your home before December 31, 2012 and it is not your primary residence, you may have a tax issue. You need to speak to a short sale specialist, and attornery, and your accountant. The waiting period to qualify for another loan after a short sale can be as soon as 2 years. The truth is there are Owners who pay the mortgage on time, are upside down, and they have to sell. There is no program for those Owners, except to default on the loan or pay the shortage. There is no program for the Owners who are at a high interest rate, upside down in value, and would like to refinance, either. There is only 1 that I know of, and you have to be at 105% LTV. Most are above that benchmark. In my opinion, the Banks got bailed out and the folks who default have special bailout programs, too. However, the folks who pay their mortgage on time and are underwater get NADA. "They" really screwed up the housing recovery by not addressing these issues. I do think Wall Street and Main Street learned a really harsh lesson and we are all paying the price.Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:04:25 PDThttp://www.trulia.com/voices/In_My_Neighborhood/Is_this_area_safe_Heard_so_much_about_crime_in_C-319547Answer by Megan Eister: Here is a site where you can see crime in the area by entering the address. http://www.sheriffleefl.org/activity/incidents.aspx I live in the Cape with my husband and children. It is a big city with a "home town" feel. It is a good idea to be careful and mind your safety no matter where you reside. All the Best!Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:25:47 PDT