With the current mortgage crisis and declining home values, many homeowners find that they are "underwater" on their loans -- that is, they owe more to their lender than their home is worth.

In order for some homeowners to avoid the credit-killing result of foreclosure, they come to agreement with their lender that allows them to sell the home for less than they owe the bank, and salvage some of their credit in the process.

Here is a look at some homes advertised as "short sales" in Massachusetts, whether they're already approved or waiting approval from a lender.

(All photos and descriptions from the Boston.com real estate listings as of 06/26/08)