1. SS means a lot of work and trouble on her side as well - but you potentially can get a cheaper price (most times) than REO, and significantly cheaper than regular equity sale. This of course depends on locality. In some places, SS discount could be small.
2. She is not pushy and hungry for money. She puts your interest first, and tries to do what she thinks right.
3. When is the best timing? It is anybody's guess. Again, it depends on locality.
Seattle, San Diego, SF, Miami have been up 10% +- in price already, while Atlanta and Chicago are still down. Phoenix is up 20% now. Even Las Vegas has seen 3% up.
Texas? hard to say.
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Your agent may be good, but she needs to listen to you, not the other way around.
Lastly, don't look for the best deal... look for a good "enough" deal. Otherwise, you may not get a deal at all in a market that is picking up speed.