RealtyTrac, an online marketplace for foreclosure properties nationwide, and First Team Real Estate, the No. 1 independent real estate brokerage in Southern California, announced today a strategic alliance that will allow consumers using the First Team Web site to search for foreclosure properties.

"With foreclosure activity on the rise nationwide and in Southern California, it is a logical extension of First Team's business model to include foreclosure information on its website along with the MLS information it already provides," said Rick Sharga, VP of marketing for the online database. "By adding foreclosures to its product line, First Team is providing consumers with valuable information while also giving its agents an opportunity to add a potential income stream to their businesses during today's difficult real estate market."

RealtyTrac's property search feature gives consumers access to properties in all three stages of the foreclosure process - preforeclosure, auction, and REOs. Not only does this make it easier for consumers to find bargain properties, but it allows First Team real estate professionals to offer potential home buyers personal assistance in navigating this complex area of real estate.

"Teaming up with RealtyTrac has provided us with an opportunity to grow the scope of our real estate web services on a grand scale, thus demonstrating our commitment to providing the public with the best information the industry has to offer," said Cameron Merage, founder, president and CEO of First Team Real Estate. Carrie Bay