Finding Vacant Homeowners & Other Unwanted Properties

[Sarah K.]

I live in the DC Metro area and have seen a lot of vacant properties around. Finding the owners is an endless task. Does anyone have any advice or an efficient way to find/purchase vacant homes, fire damaged homes or other unwanted properties with too much work/damage?

[Russell Brazil]

You can check the tax records...but as far as purchasing then...that could be another story. If it is bank owned, you have no chance as those have to be listed publicly for sale. Rarely though in DC does a foreclosure even happen.