Vacant house of deceased, need help finding owner

General Real Estate Investing
1

I came across a vacant house. The person passed away in 2008. I can’t seem to find info on who the executor would be. I called the county probate office and they said the house ISNT in probate. When I look up the owner info on the appraisal website, it still shows the deceased person as the owner and not anyone else. The house is empty, but someone is keeping the grass cut and getting the mail. I want to find out who is handling this house and who might have control of it!

I see posts to go to eh probate office, BUT will I find more info than I’m finding online? All I find online is the DEATH CERT which doesn’t list anything. Also, how can I find out which attorney to contact about this? Or if the house ever was in probate?

2

Do you want to buy the house? Since someone is getting the mail, why not send a letter? There are some good sample “estate” letters on REI Club.

Furnishedowner

3

If someone is collecting the mail, then send a letter. You could also do a next of kin search on the deceased.

4

Would it be a bad idea to leave a letter taped on the door as well?

5

If there are neighbors (epically if they are elderly), you could ask them who has been cutting the grass. Just another method if the mail option doesn’t work.

6

I forgot to point out I sent letters to the address to see if the letters gets forwarded or not using an address service requested.

I did ask the neighbors and they don’t know. I also let business cards on the door/mailbox.

7

Ok at the courthouse, I was able to get ALL the info I need! The lady at the probate office also told me there is an online search for the same records…lol. Next time, I won’t have to drive for an hour to look this stuff up! So now I can contact the executors…