All Forum Posts by: Nicole D.

go to your state government website and read the state statutes on adverse possession its different in every state.. I would say though you probably have a better chance at winning powerball than doing an adverse possession claim.  you have to find an heir

One way is to find out if a death certificate has been filed. That would be located at the county Viatal Statistics department.

Whomever filled it out (relative, sibling, son, daughter, etc.) will be your first point of contact or if you since you know of the owner's name check to see if a probate case has been filed.

Probate laws vary from state to state and my understanding is the property is going to have to go through the court probate process.

@Nicole D.

Check your state rules.  You do not need to notify someone if you are buying them.  When it gets to acquiring someone’s property through a tax deed there are generally a process you must follow.  It’s the governments way of protecting homeowners.  Most properties are under a mortgage so the lender pays it.  I am assuming you have a property that has no mortgage liens on it.   

You are going to need to confirm whether the owner is actually deceased.  If deceased who is the rightful heir to the property.  If none exist the government will take it.  Go to the county court house to confirm your info or speak to an attorney who has expertise in this area.

@Nicole D. 

Check your state statutes.  In my state you need to buy the taxes for three years in a row and there is a redemption period.  You will receive interest on your money if the owner redeems ( pays the taxes).  You can obtain the deed this way but check your state laws.  There are many requirements you must follow which includes proper notification to the owner during the process.  This may require a number of letters being sent during the time period.

Good Luck.