Foreclosure Guide

At first glance, selling a foreclosed property seems easy: with a price well below market levels, you'd expect to get dozens of buyers on your doorstep. But buyers looking for Laguna Beach homes are still cautious about buying foreclosed homes and other troubled properties. If you're on the selling end, that means you have to put in more effort to get your home sold.

Planning is vital to selling in any market, but it's doubly important when it comes to foreclosed homes. To make sure you're on the right track, focus on three main steps: getting a good agent, improving your home, and maximizing exposure.

1. Work with an agent.
The last thing on your mind is probably paying another person to take care of the sale, but a good agent is well worth your money. A Laguna Beach real estate agent can help you find more buyers, negotiate better deals, and give you advice on preparing for sale. You don't just want an experienced agent-you want one with specific experience on foreclosures, short sales and other troubled situations. With the right professionals, you can get through the process faster and come out with a fair share.

2. Prepare to show your home.
Buyers have come to expect foreclosed properties to be run-down and full of structural flaws, and that's what turns away most clients. After all, Laguna Beach homes are well known for their curb appeal. But there are lots of things you can do to make it more attractive: keeping plants watered, edging the lawn, retouching the paint and caulking. On the inside, make sure there's no clutter and replace anything that looks old or broken. Most of the changes cost very little, but still improve your home's market value.

3. Market your property.
Foreclosed properties are seldom accepted in standard listings, so you may start off with far less exposure than most Laguna Beach homes. Your agent can help you find other ways to get your property on the market, such as flyers, websites, and online listings. Take your own steps and print out brochures, with flattering pictures of your property that highlight its best features. Use your own network and ask friends and family to help you get word around.