Renovating a Dead Lawn: Seed vs. Sod for Foreclosure Properties

A new foreclosure in SoCal has a completely dead lawn. A coworker suggests rototilling, compost, and seeding. The expert recommends sod as more forgiving of missed watering. Detailed steps: rototill lightly, check for grubs (post hole digger), soap flush for insects, apply Milorganite, lay fresh sod tight, roll, water deeply, monitor seams, water morning/afternoon to prevent fungus.