Times Real Estate CA March 12, 2026
Every property has a story, and some require a thoughtful strategy to unlock their full value. The sale of 18161 Larkstone Dr in North Tustin is a perfect example of how strategic pricing, strong positioning, and careful buyer selection can turn a challenging listing into a successful outcome for everyone involved.
This property presented several unique considerations that required a careful and strategic approach.
The home featured an unusual floor plan with several below-grade bedrooms, which can sometimes raise questions for buyers and affect perceived value. Additionally, the property had a mix of updates alongside areas with deferred maintenance, meaning it didn’t fit neatly into the typical “fully remodeled” or “fixer” categories buyers often search for.
On top of that, timing was critical.
Our sellers were already in escrow on their replacement home, which meant this property needed to sell efficiently in order to ensure a smooth transition into the next chapter of their lives.
In situations like this, pricing and positioning become everything.
Rather than trying to force the home into a category that didn’t fit, we leaned into what made the property special.
We focused on highlighting the strength of the lot and long-term upside potential, helping buyers understand the opportunity the property represented rather than focusing solely on its current condition.
At the same time, we implemented a strategic pricing strategy designed to generate early momentum. The goal was simple: attract strong buyer interest immediately and create competitive pressure in the market.
The response confirmed the strategy.
Within the first weekend on the market, the property generated:
• Multiple showings
• Strong buyer interest
• Multiple offers
Creating that early momentum was key to pushing the price upward and maximizing the final result for our sellers.
When multiple offers come in, the highest price isn’t always the best choice.
The most important step became selecting the right buyer.
By speaking directly with the buyers’ lender and evaluating each buyer’s financial readiness, motivation, and commitment, we were able to identify the offer most likely to deliver a smooth and reliable closing.
The result:
The property sold for 102% of the list price.
The buyers secured a property with excellent investment upside, and our sellers were able to successfully close on schedule, allowing them to move forward with their dream retirement home without delays.
And as always, we remain grateful.
Thank you, Jesus. His hand was truly over this transaction.
Every property is different. Some homes sell themselves, while others require careful positioning, honest conversations with buyers, and a well-executed strategy.
At Times Real Estate CA, we pride ourselves on guiding our clients through both the easy sales and the complex ones with professionalism, creativity, and faith.
Because the goal isn’t just to sell a house.
The goal is to help people move forward in life with confidence.
If you're considering selling your home in North Tustin, Newport Beach, or anywhere in Orange County, strategic pricing and expert marketing can make all the difference.
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