Tips & Warnings Some short sale companies and agents are available to help you negotiate a short sale with your bank. You can often find a company that charges no upfront fees for you. (They take their payment out of the real estate commission when the home sells)Be wary of some negotiating companies that charge an upfront "application or processing fee." Some of these companies charge $999 upfront to desperate homeowners with promises of negotiating a short sale, loan modification, or some other solution between you and your bank, with no actual results.There are some very good free or low cost services available to upside-down homeowners to help you negotiate with your bank and avoid foreclosure. Call Justine she's experienced in short sales and charges no fee. 740-922-2387