Real Estate Agents Frequently Ask....

I want to become a CSSS. How do I get certified?

The Certified Short Sale Specialist (CSSS) course is a one-day class consisting of 7.5 hours and a final examination. The applicant must demonstrate that he/she has closed three short sales prior to or within twelve months after taking the course. All applicants must have this proof by their anniversary date to maintain their certification.

Can I use the CSSS designation immediately after completing the course?

Yes, the CSSS short sale designation is awarded upon a) completing the course, b) passing the final examination, and c) providing proof of closing the required number of short sales or obtaining a mentor ship waiver.

Is the term "Certified Short Sale Specialist" federally trademarked?

The term "Certified Short Sale Specialist" is trademarked in Washington State.

What will I be able to do after taking short sale training?

You will understand how to approach and obtain short sale leads and convert them into short sale listings. You will be provided with the information to recommend the best workout option to potential clients, including referrals to CPAs and Lawyers with whom you can network. You will be able to process short sale applications yourself or outsource them to reliable strategic partners.

Does this course count for Clock Hour Credits?

Yes, the course is approved for 7.5 Clock Hours in Washington State and will apply for credits in any state where the course is offered.

Is this short sale training a NAR approved designation?

NAR does not currently have a short sale designation course. Per the NAR Code of Ethics, section 12:13, Realtors may display any designation, certification or other credential to which they are legitimately entitled.

What additional fees or expenses can I expect?

There are no additional fees other than the course and the manual, which is optional. On-going mentoring, co-listing, and other support is provided based on a deal-by-deal basis. These services would be paid from real estate commissions and other revenues generated from the sale.  There may be an annual fee not to exceed $99.00 to cover the website administration and promotion.

Do I need any previous experience with short sales?

No.  The CSSS Course has been designed with the real estate agent in mind.  It has been developed to provide a solid short sale foundation to agents who have no background in short selling homes.

Do I have to be a licensed real estate agent to earn the designation?

When and where is the next class?

We are currently enrolling students in the Seattle/Tacoma and Vancouver/Portland areas. See our class listings for details.

Can you help with a short sale listing right now? I don't have time for the class.

We can help you with an existing listing before you take the class. This counts towards the two short sales necessary for your certification, as long as you take the class within 90 days. Contact us for more information.

For Home Sellers

Where can I find a list of Certified Short Sale Specialists in my area?

We are currently developing an online listing of agents who have completed the requirements. In the meantime, please call us and we will help you find a certified agent in your area.

What is a short sale?

A situation where the lender allows you to sell your home and give them less than what you owe them. This is definitely not a do-it-yourself project, as it involves complex negotiations with a whole host of interested parties. Lenders are notorious for rejecting a short sale proposal for the tiniest of mistakes.

Does every lender grant a short sale?

No, each lender will handle the situation differently. Some will grant the sale, some will modify the loan, some will proceed to foreclosure. Of those who will grant the sale, the length of time the process takes will vary greatly.

I have a great Realtor. Do I really need a Certified Short Sale Specialist?

If your goal is to remain out of foreclosure, then you should work with a CSSS. Right now, lenders are being deluged with requests for short sales. Those packages put together by a trained, experienced short sale specialist are mostly likely to be approved. Any mistake or missing document can cause the proposal to be rejected, leading to foreclosure.