Expert: Dick Dennis - 8/23/2008

Question
I saw a home today that looks almost complete; but abandon. NO address, like to learn who owns it and how I may attempt to buy it. It is in Ohio, with no address am at a loss. Any ideas? thank you

Answer
My recommendation, Jim, is to, for now, just keep your eye on it. If you see any change to the exterior, then try to talk to any of the workmen there. Ask them for whom they are working. If it progresses further, chances are you will be able to catch a real estate agent.

Or, you can get ahold of a real estate agent and ask that person to look up the owner of that property. A real estate veteran would be able to check up the ownership. Further, he could tell the owner that he may have a buyer. You could also go to the local county recording office and try to identify the property by the streets (with new names). My guess it is in the hands of a bank somewhere.

Be aware that you are not in a good position at this point. If the owner (or bank) discovers that someone is interested in the property, you can bet they will try to get more for it by seeing what advertising it would do for them. Your best time would have been if the property was on the market for a long time with no sale. THEN that is when you would want to approach with your offer.

I am sure you understand what I am getting at. I wish you well.

Dick Dennis