Your Options When You Have Negative Equity
You're "underwater" when your mortgage balance (plus any other liens) is higher than what the house could sell for. That can happen after buying near a market peak, taking a second mortgage or HELOC, or when a house needs expensive repairs that drag its value down.
1. Stay and Ride It Out
If you can afford the payments and don't need to move, time and principal paydown may close the gap.
2. Talk to Your Lender About a Modification
If the problem is the payment, ask your servicer about a loan modification or repayment plan. A free HUD-approved housing counselor can help you apply.
3. Rent It Out
If rent covers the mortgage, taxes, insurance and repairs, renting can buy time. Make sure you understand landlord responsibilities first.
4. Short Sale
In a short sale, your lender agrees to accept less than the full payoff. It requires lender approval, documentation of hardship, and patience — approval can take weeks or months. Ask the lender whether it will waive any remaining balance (deficiency) and talk with a tax professional about possible tax effects of forgiven debt.
5. Cash Sale (When the Numbers Work)
If you're only slightly underwater, a fast as-is sale with no commissions or seller closing costs sometimes closes the gap — especially compared to listing, where repairs and commissions can widen it. We'll tell you honestly whether our offer can cover your payoff, or whether a short sale is the better route.
Compare your net proceeds: direct sale vs. listing →
How It Works
Submit Your Property Info
Fill out the quick form with basic details about your property. No obligation — it takes less than 2 minutes.
Receive Your Cash Offer
Our team reviews your info and delivers a fair, no-obligation cash offer within 24 hours — often the same day.
Choose Your Closing Date
If you accept, you pick the closing date. We handle all paperwork and cover 100% of closing costs.
Get Paid in Cash
Close on your schedule and walk away with cash in hand. No waiting, no surprises.
Where We Buy
All of metro Atlanta, including Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton, Cobb, Douglas, Gwinnett, Henry, Rockdale, Newton and Fayette counties. Call or text 404-348-0589 with any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell my house if I owe more than it is worth?
Yes, but the loan must be paid off at closing. You would need to bring the difference to closing, or get lender approval for a short sale.
Do you do short sales?
We can make an offer that you submit to your lender for short-sale approval. Approval is up to the lender and can take time.
Will a short sale hurt my credit?
A short sale is typically reported negatively, though often less severely than a completed foreclosure. Ask a credit counselor for advice on your situation.
Will you tell me if selling does not make sense?
Yes. If our numbers cannot work for you, we will say so and point you toward other options.
Request My Purchase Price
Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch within 24 hours
You're All Set!
Thank you! A member of the ATL Home Buyers team will reach out within 24 hours with your cash offer.
Questions? Call us at 404-348-0589