Buyer Wants to Negotiate Short Sale

[Sandy Thayer]

A buyer want to negotiate with the lender directly on one of my short sale listings. Has anyone seen a contract the would identify the negotiator (buyer) fiduciary responsibility to the seller?

[Eric M.]

No contract. It is still up to you to be aware of what is going on and represent the seller's interests.
That said, this is the typical way any short sale investor is going to insist on doing a deal. They are not going to allow a realtor to be their negotiator. Most are just no good at it.
That said, you shouldn't fear the buyer/investor who wants to negotiate himself either. You should embrace it.
The risk to the seller is not much and you don't want to spend the time.
THe bottom line to the buyer/investor is they are trying to get the lowest price possible. A lower price doesn't harm your seller unless the lender is going to pursue a deficiency. You should make sure the buyer/negotiator is requesting that the lender waive pursuing a deficiency.
If the buyer/investor is going to do a same day flip just make sure he is disclosing that intent to the lender and seller and you are all covered.
I think it will be in your best interest as a realtor to understand the motives of a short sale investor and become an investor friendly realtor.
There is a regualr SS investor on here from Geneva. Can't think of his name though. Might be a good lunch date to share info. Or maybe he is your buyer!
Good Luck!