Approaching a preforclosure

[Sherry Solomon]

I have a buyer client who is very interested in a particular house that is in preforclosure. I spoke with the forclosure attorney, and was told that it is still at the point where the homeowner can make a deal to sell. I am trying to write a letter to the owners and am blanking out. Can anyone help me to express sufficient sympathy that I don't sound heartless, but not so much that I sound like a sleazy salesman?

Also, for those who are familar with preforclosures - does this sound like it would have to be a short sale? How does it differ from a regular sale - ie., what do I need to be careful about in order not to mess this up?