LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- With recent reports showing Nevada first in the nation in foreclosures, embattled homeowners can explore other options before settling on the most dreaded one of all.

Local realtor Brandy White Elk says that before homeowners consider foreclosing on their homes they should first talk to their mortgage holder about short sales, which are also called "pre-foreclosures."

Short sales are "when you negotiate with a bank to take less than what a homeowner owes," White Elk said. "(The home) gets sold quicker and the buyer comes in with an equity position."

White Elk, echoing sentiments other realtors have made, said prospective homeowners can better guard against future foreclosure by investing for the right reasons and making sure they purchase an affordable home that fits their budget. White Elk also told FOX5 News that if the homeowner has a problem with paying his or her mortgage, they can take proper steps with the lender to try and get your loan out of default.

According to a national survey, Nevada's rate of foreclosure is triple that of the U.S. average. Studies show the 89031 zip code in North Las Vegas and the 89131 in Las Vegas have the highest number of foreclosures per area.