Short Sales vs Foreclosures: The Banks’ Preference

For months now, that banks were going to begin shifting their focus when liquidating distressed properties. They would start supporting short sales over foreclosures. There is no longer any doubt this is now the new normal.

In a recent news release, the FHFA announced new guidelines to streamline the short sale process.

FHFA Acting Director Edward J. DeMarco on the new guidelines:

“These new guidelines demonstrate FHFA’s and Fannie Mae’s and Freddie Mac’s commitment to enhancing and streamlining processes to avoid foreclosure and stabilize communities.”

You can see the new guidelines here.

In a DSNews article, both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac reaffirmed their desire to proceed with short sales rather than foreclosures.

Leslie Peeler, SVP, National Servicing Organization, Fannie Mae:

“Short sales have become an increasingly important tool in preventing foreclosures and stabilizing communities. We want to help as many homeowners avoid foreclosure as possible. It is vital that servicers, junior lien holders and mortgage insurers step up to the plate with us.”

Tracy Mooney, SVP Single-Family Servicing & REO at Freddie Mac:

“These changes will make it clear that Freddie Mac servicers have the authority to approve short sales for more borrowers facing the most frequently seen hardships. These changes will further empower the industry to minimize foreclosures and help Freddie Mac in its mission to minimize credit losses and fortify a national housing recovery.”

When developing your business plan for 2013 you need to take into consideration that short sales are going to dramatically increase over the next 18 months.