How to Make a Respectful Offer on a Home After the Owner’s Death

[John Zurzolo]

( No will in place)

I know someone who recently lost both of their parents. Unfortunately, the parents didn’t have a will, and now the adult child is concerned about what to do with the house. They’re not in a financial position to keep the home and are worried about it going into foreclosure.

I’m potentially interested in buying the property, but I want to approach the situation carefully and respectfully.

What’s the proper process for buying a home in this kind of situation (no will, possible probate involved)?

How should I go about making an offer that doesn’t seem predatory or insensitive?

Are there legal considerations I should be aware of before even starting this conversation?

Any advice would be appreciated, especially from those who’ve dealt with similar situations.

I have not had a direct conversation with this person yet so details I don’t have much, but I was told that they will be reaching out to me.

[Ken M.]

Quote from @John Zurzolo:

@Ken M.

Ken,

Thanks for that Info. I’m currently waiting for the daughter to reach out. If I don’t hear from her in a week or two I will call her. I just hate to bother her now while she’s going through this tuff situation with her father passing.

I wouldn't wait. Statistically it takes a year before people start looking for a solution.
I would ask the question, 

"Now that this has been dropped in  your lap, how will you make the payments so it doesn't go back to the bank? The mortgage payment doesn't stop just because they can't make the payments anymore? Do you plan on keeping the house or would having the money be useful?"

Let her talk.