Can an investor buy a short sale directly from the owner?

[Christian Chavez]

For example, am I allowed to get an authorization signed by the homeowner, put together a packet, and negotiate with the bank myself? 

[Michael Knaus]

Maybe I missed something but that's the only way I've done it (about 12 so far). I get the seller to sign an ATR agreement then contact the bank. The sale is between me and the seller and I am the one to negotiate the payoffs directly with the lender. I am an agent but not working in that capacity in these cases. I am the investor/buyer. Never had an issue. The bank (or service co) could care less. They want the money.