The Success of a short sale process is in the package. If you want to sell your house fast, your short sale package must be impeccable. That means you have to submit the correct package from the beginning. Even the smallest mistakes, like missing a page can stall the sales process for months. Banks are overwhelmed by home owner’s requests. If a negotiator checks on your file and finds something missing, he or she might come back to your file in a couple of months, even though you sent the missing piece of paperwork in two days after you were aware of not sending it. 

Every bank has different requirements when it comes to what must be included in the package; make sure to find out exactly what your bank needs in order to deem your package complete. Incomplete packages result in extra delays.

When sending your package send it via fax and certified mail, due to a huge workload, representatives handling applications often forget to enter the data into their system and when asked about it they often say they have not received it. In the case they say they have not received your package you can then let them know you certified mailed it and let them know who signed for the package or provide them the fax confirmation page. 

When you call your bank make sure you are talking to the right person i.e. the negotiator, who is handling your property. Try to get all your questions answered during one phone session with the negotiator; otherwise it may be another month until you have them on the phone again. Contact the bank to inquire about the status of your application at least twice a week. Be prepared to spend up to one hour on hold while trying to speak to a representative.  

Also consider looking for an experienced agent with a proven record of closing short sales. Success and speed of a short sale lays in negotiations.