[Name and Address of your lender]

Attention: Loss Mitigation Department

Re: Loan _____________________

Dear Sir or Madam:

As you are aware, I have not made payments on the above-reference loan for the last ____months. I am providing this letter to explain my circumstances and to ask that you accept a short sale of my house.

My husband left me six months ago for another woman. At first, he sent money for me and our three children and helped out with the house payment. He works for the electric company and three months ago he tried to rescue a cat and touched a live line. Now he is on permanent disability and can’t send me any money. His girlfriend left him and he needs financial help from me. I work at the cosmetic counter at Nieman Marcus and the $3,500 I make each month barely covers our basic living expenses.

I put our house up for sale as soon as my husband stopped sending me money. It’s listed with ___________ Real Estate Company. My agent is _______________ and her phone number is __________________. I have enclosed an authorization allowing you to speak with her. [Note: your agent will be able to provide you with an authorization form.]

We listed the house for $250,000 which is what we owe you. In the last three months we have had one offer. Unfortunately, the buyer has only offered $210,000. I am asking you to forgive the $40,000 difference and to accept the $210,000 (less commissions and escrow expenses) as payment in full on the note. If you can do that I will be able to avoid foreclose and bankruptcy. My agent says she will accept a reduced commission if necessary to facilitate this deal.

Sincerely,

[homeowner]