Investors
San Diego trustee sales, for investors
Most scheduled trustee sales never sell to an outside bidder: they're postponed or go back to the lender. The work is knowing which ones are worth your capital, and being ready on sale day.
The process
How do California trustee sales work?
A trustee sale is the auction at the end of a non-judicial foreclosure. Here's the path from missed payments to a sale, and what changes after it.
Notice of default
The lender's trustee records a notice of default after the borrower falls behind.
Notice of trustee's sale
At least three months later, if the default isn't cured, a notice of sale is posted and published at least 20 days before the auction.
The auction
Bidders pay with cash or cashier's checks, and the property sells as-is, with title and occupancy risks researched beforehand.
Postponed, sold or back to the lender
Many sales are postponed. Others revert to the lender when no bid beats the opening amount.
After the sale
For most one-to-four unit homes, tenants, owner-occupant buyers and certain nonprofits can still make a qualifying bid within 45 days under Civil Code section 2924m.
Working together
How does Stephen work with investors?
Consultation
We set your working capital, markets and buy box: price range, property type and how you plan to exit.
Written agreement
Responsibilities and terms in writing before any money moves.
Funds in trust before the sale
Your bidding funds are wired to the brokerage trust account ahead of the auction.
Bid, or roll forward
If a bid doesn't win, funds come back to you or stay in trust for the next sale. You get an accounting every month.
Wire fraud warning
Criminals send fake wiring instructions by email and text. Never wire money on instructions you received by email or text alone. Confirm them first by calling a number you already know.
FAQ
Questions investors ask
Do I need cash to bid at a trustee sale?
Yes. California trustee sales are paid in cash or cashier's checks, not with a new loan, so bidders bring certified funds to the sale.
Can I inspect a property before the auction?
Usually not inside. Research comes from public records, title work and the outside of the property, which is what the Monday preview helps with.
Is a winning bid final right away?
Not always. For most one-to-four unit homes, Civil Code section 2924m gives tenants, buyers who will live in the home and certain nonprofits up to 45 days after the sale to make a qualifying bid.
Which markets does the buyer list cover?
San Diego County, the Bay Area and Riverside County. Tell Stephen your markets and buy box when you join.