California Delinquent tax questions..

[Jason Miller]

Hello community!

I have been working in this neighborhood for a while fixing up the historic homes and noticed another one of the houses needing work. After stopping by to see and knocking on the door, no answer to get in contact of the owner, I looked up to find the home is now 4  years delinquent on taxes.

The house is needing much work unfortunately and with taxes being delinquent, the owner may not have the funds to rectify any of the situation. 

Though in CA, 5 years delinquency on property taxes, the city can file a lien and auction off the house.

If I pay those taxes, what's the process of if I wanted to take possession of the property after the 5 years delinquent taxes? As I have not set foot in that house nor tried to make any action to live and repair the property per adverse possession. Do I have grounds to put a lien myself or levy the property from the owner? Seeing this as an opportunity to have property at a massive discount in Los Angeles without needing to put $150k+ down would be great!

Mind you, I'm just looking to see what is possible as if there is someone living in the home, that would be a slimy move to take the property without communication. But, if they have given up on the home, is another story.

I plan to stop by the house again soon and leave a note and try to find contact info to talk with them to get their story.

From what I have gathered, the original owner passed away and one of their children obtained the estate of the home a while ago but, may be living in Orange County. Cannot confirm as of yet.

Not sure the best route, thinking I should consult with a RE lawyer, and talk to the city tax office if I can 't get a hold of the owner before the property goes into the 5 year delinquency.

Thanks!

[Rick H.]

Trying to “take over” a vacant property that appears abandoned is not for the untrained would-be investor. Especially anywhere in California, and particularly Los Angeles county.

Talk to longtime neighbors who might know story and whereabouts of owner, but don’t accept as fact.

I’d start with researching who the record owner is. If you don’t have access to title company services, go to Norwalk recorder’s office and “chain” out the ownership and open mortgages. Check out the property taxes to determine if defaulted and address where bills are sent.

Owner could be alive, living nearby or in a facility (?) or shipped to parts unknown. 
Or deceased. I always check probate courts for estate filings and possible Conservatorship of a senior.

Another possibility is that ownership has already changed and title held by entity, just waiting to take next step to rehab, demo, assemble other ownership, etc.