probate needed for short sale?

[Marlena B.]

This is my first time dealing with a short sale in which the owner on title is deceased.  The owner's son is considered the executor of the estate, according to the bank, but there is no legal trust set up.  We're close to getting an approval for an offer, and the subject of probate came up.  My broker is stumped in this situation as well; because the property is being sold as a short-sale, and there is no profit to be made, is the probate process even necessary?  Anyone have any experience or insights?  I want to prepare myself and my clients before we get in any deeper.

[Rick H.]

Just because someone has obtained their real estate agent's license does not mean that they have so much as a clue about what makes a deal. 

To think that the agent did no research as to status/condition of title should not surprise experienced probate investors.

Interesting how many people were drawn to this thread only to see that the OP was relying on the knowledge of the real estate agent (sigh).