There are a few misconceptions when it comes to short sales and whether or not a Wellington short sale seller or their bank has to sign a buyer’s offer.

First, a short sale is an agreement between the short sale seller and the buyer, NOT the short sale seller’s bank(s). Even though the seller needs short sale approval from their bank they are not a party to the contract, the short sale seller is still the owner of the record on the deed, not their bank.

Second, in order for an offer to be enforceable both the short sale seller and buyer needs to sign the offer after coming to terms. If the short sale listing agent tells you otherwise you might want to reconsider pursuing that particular short sale.

So the answer is YES the seller of a short sale has to sign an offer if all parties agree to the terms.

If you are an interested in buying or selling your home as a short sale make sure to hire an experienced short sale agent.