Integra Group Real Estate LLC, a brokerage firm specializing in the marketing and sale of real estate-owned (REO), U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) and distressed properties, has partnered with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and one of the nation’s largest providers of title and escrow services to provide distressed homeowners in the region with short sale consultations.
As distressed homeowners continue to turn to short sales as an alternative to foreclosure, it is essential to fully understand the process as well as home selling options relative to their homeownership situations. Through the partnership, homeowners can receive short sale consultations, legal counsel and assistance from a certified public accountant (CPA). All parties involved offer homeowners the input needed to make informed decisions regarding short sales or other homeownership options.
Fairway provides personnel to assess credit score ramifications and refinancing options, identify home market values, discuss future purchase options and answer any homeowner questions. The title company partner will supply the title report and make escrow officers available to address homeowners’ concerns. The attorney partner will provide legal advice regarding the potential liabilities and statutes of selling or surrendering distressed properties while the CPA will assist with tax consequences that result from short sales and help determine the amount of taxes the homeowner could be liable for, or receive relief from, under law.
“This partnership will ensure homeowners who are struggling to understand all of their options are provided with personal, professional support and high quality information,” said Eric Lichtenheld, president of Integra. “Homeowners are frequently advised to consult with a lawyer and CPA before entering into a potential short sale, but many CPAs and lawyers avoid the subject due to the inherent liability. This partnership brings all necessary specialists together in one counseling session to effectively inform and assist the homeowner.”
