how to find the owners of vacant properties? 5 posts by 4 users

Posted: 07/16/2008 at 08:43AM

Hello,
I've found several vacant properties that I'd like to try to wholesale. Once I get to that point. However, I've contacted the city treasurer & the city tax depts and they both stated they can't give out the information where the bills go to. They both told me to call the other dept. You're not able to access this information online. I live in Norfolk, Virginia. I'm not able to go to the office b/c I work full time M-F. The only thing I was able to get is a name, phone number is unlisted. What would be the best way to try to find out information on the absent homeowner's to send a letter? price is also an issue, too.

Please advise. I appreciate all your help.

Thank you,

Posted: 07/16/2008 at 09:00AM

Do you think I should do a skip/trace or something like that?

Posted: 07/17/2008 at 11:40AM

I would not use a skiptrace unless you have EXHAUSTED your resources. The plan is to make money, not spend it. The problem with skip tracing is you will be paying too much money for something that may or may not work. Then if you do get the correct information, and you contact the buyer, and they may or may not be interested in selling. Then if they are, they may or may not like your offer.

That is TOO many if's for something that costs as much money as a skiptrace for me.