tg,
It all depends on the lender(s) and the listing agent. Best case scenario is probably 21 to 30 days after the first offer is submitted on a listing. I’ve had some carry on for several months. If you find one you like, submit an offer with the Short Sale Addendum attached. You really have no risk at all. You have no responsibility to do anything (including providing a deposit check) until a written acceptance from the lenders for your offer is in hand. Until then you are free to continue shopping or drinking heavily.
When the offer is approved by the lender in writing, it becomes a normal escorw and you still have your typical 17 day contingency period to back out for any reason or even no reason.
