Send this story Print this story

Adjust text size

Realtor earns designation as 'distressed sales' expert
Works to help homeowners avoid foreclosure

by Jeb Bing

Diana Korpi of RE/MAX Accord has earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance and short sales.

Short sales allow the cash-strapped seller to repay the mortgage at the price that the home sells for, even though it is lower than what is owed on the property. With plummeting property values, this can save many people from foreclosure and even bankruptcy. More and more lenders are willing to consider short sales because they are much less costly than foreclosures.

"This CDPE designation has been invaluable as I work with sellers and lenders on complicated short sales," Korpi said. "It is so rewarding to be able to help sellers save their homes from foreclosure."

Alex Charfen, founder of the Distressed Property Institute in Boca Raton, Fla., said that Realtors with the CDPE designation have valuable training in short sales that can offer the homeowner much better alternatives to foreclosure, which virtually destroys the credit rating. CDPE experts also may better understand market conditions and can help sellers through the emotional experience.