Shot Sell Ethics

[Frank S.]

On a short sale, can the listing agent simply say:

"Sorry, someone applied before you and submitted the EMD, you can't bid"

In this case, the owner is out of town and it's highly likely she hasn't signed the contract.

What's up with that? Is this customary? The price is GREAT, and I am getting a sense I'm getting bumped. I am an unrepresented buyer, this was an off -MLS bite on an expired listing.

Thanks,

Frank