Struggling to Make Mortgage Payments? Explore Your Short Sale Options in Bakersfield

Behind on Your Mortgage? You Still Have Options — Here’s What You Need to Know About Short Sales

If you're behind on your mortgage payments and feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and you're not out of options.

Hi, I’m Tiffany Bicknell, a local Realtor® with the Bakersfield Real Estate Group, and I specialize in helping families explore solutions when they’re facing financial challenges with their home. One of the most misunderstood but powerful tools available is a short sale—and it could be exactly what helps you avoid foreclosure and move forward with peace of mind.

What Is a Short Sale?

A short sale allows you to sell your home for less than what you owe on your mortgage—with your lender’s approval. This process can help you:

• Avoid foreclosure

• Reduce stress and stop the calls from the bank

• Start rebuilding your credit sooner

• Walk away with dignity and a fresh start

It’s important to know: you don’t have to go through this alone, and it doesn’t cost you anything to work with a trained short sale specialist like me.

If You’re In Default — Don’t Wait

Many homeowners wait until they receive a foreclosure notice before reaching out—but the earlier we start the short sale process, the more options we have.

Here’s a general timeline:

• Most banks file a Notice of Default after you miss 3 payments (about 90 days late)

• From there, the bank can set a foreclosure date 90 days later

• That means you may have around 6 months total before foreclosure happens—but don’t wait that long to get help

What You'll Need for a Short Sale

Each situation is unique, but most lenders will ask for:

• A hardship letter (I’ll help you write it)

• Recent pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns

• A completed financial worksheet

• A listing agreement with a qualified agent

• An offer on your home (we'll help you get one)

I’ll guide you every step of the way so nothing falls through the cracks.

Why Choose a Short Sale Over Foreclosure?

Here’s the truth:

• Foreclosure can stay on your credit for up to 7 years

• With a short sale, you may be able to buy a home again in as little as 2–3 years

• You won’t have to answer “yes” to the question “Have you had a property foreclosed upon?” on future loan applications

Plus, lenders often prefer short sales over foreclosures because it saves them time and money—which means they may be more willing to work with you than you think.

Be Cautious: Not Everyone Has Your Best Interest

Unfortunately, there are people out there who try to take advantage of struggling homeowners. If someone offers to "take over your deed" or pressures you to sign anything, talk to a trusted real estate professional first. If the deal is legitimate, they won’t mind a second opinion.

How I Can Help

I’m not just here to list your home—I’m here to support you through one of the toughest decisions you may ever face.

As a mom of two and a dedicated local Realtor®, I treat every client like family. I’ve helped families in tough situations explore their options, avoid foreclosure, and take back control of their financial future. And I’ll do the same for you—with no cost for my services.

Let’s Talk—No Pressure, Just Support

If you’re behind on your mortgage or worried about losing your home, let’s have a conversation. There’s no obligation, no cost, and it could be the first step toward relief.

📲 Call or text me anytime at 661-616-7238
📧 Email: tbicknell@watsonrealty.com

Or message me on Instagram @sellwithtiffanybicknell for a private chat.

You're not alone—and you don’t have to face this without help.

Tiffany Bicknell
Realtor® | Bakersfield Real Estate Group
Specializing in Short Sales & Homeowner Support
DRE # 02174058
📍 Kern County, California