About Us
California's Short Sale Specialists — On Your Side
Since 2009, Golden State Short Sales has helped over 500 California families navigate one of the hardest financial situations a homeowner can face — at absolutely no cost to them.
Lead Agent & Founder
Michael Osterman
California DRE License #002213966
Michael Osterman has spent over 15 years helping California homeowners navigate financial hardship with dignity and expertise. He founded Golden State Short Sales during the 2009 foreclosure crisis after witnessing firsthand how many families were losing their homes unnecessarily — simply because they didn't know their options.
Michael's approach is straightforward: treat every client like family, negotiate aggressively with lenders on their behalf, and never charge the homeowner a cent. His deep relationships with loss mitigation departments at every major California lender — and his reputation for submitting clean, complete packages — are why Golden State Short Sales maintains a 98% lender approval rate.
When he's not negotiating short sales, Michael speaks at California real estate conferences on distressed property strategies and advocates for stronger homeowner protections in Sacramento.
Credentials & Affiliations
- California DRE Licensed — #002213966
- Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)
- Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource (SFR) Certified
- Member, California Association of Realtors
- Member, National Association of Realtors
- 15+ years California real estate experience
What Drives Us
Our Values
Integrity First
We tell you the truth about your situation — even when it's not what you want to hear. You deserve honest guidance, not a sales pitch.
Genuine Compassion
We've sat across from hundreds of families in crisis. We understand the fear and shame that comes with financial hardship — and we never judge.
Homeowner Advocacy
Our fees are paid by the lender. That means our loyalty is entirely to you — not to the bank, not to the buyer. Always.
Expert Negotiation
Lender approval is never guaranteed. Our track record comes from knowing how to build a compelling case and fight for the best possible outcome.
Our History
Built to Serve California Homeowners
Founded during the height of the foreclosure crisis to serve California homeowners with nowhere to turn.
Expanded statewide coverage to serve all 58 California counties after demand from Northern and Central CA homeowners.
Reached 250 successfully closed short sales — all with full deficiency waivers negotiated for clients.
Launched dedicated hardship counseling program to help homeowners impacted by COVID-19 economic disruption.
Surpassed 500 families helped statewide, maintaining a 98% lender approval rate across all transactions.
Serving All of California Since 2009
From San Diego to Sacramento — every county, every lender, every situation.
Ready to Talk to Michael?
A free, confidential consultation with no obligation. We'll review your situation and give you honest answers — at no cost.