Conversation with Possible Seller

[Jaime Rossini]

Kind of interesting/odd situation. A job opportunity forced us to relocate. While looking for a new home to purchase, we are staying in the owner's unit of a duplex (in the town to which we are trying to relocate). The owner is an acquaintance. The acquaintance is out of state (where he owns another house) for an extended period of time and is allowing us to stay.  We have since fallen in love with the property and asked if he would be interested in selling it. He is older and both he and his wife are in declining health. He gave it serious thought and after a couple weeks replied that now was not the time. The property is in good shape, but definitely has plenty of deferred maintenance. It is a legal duplex with an unwarranted 3rd unit. He just let us know that the tenant in the unwarranted unit is leaving.  We would love to find a way to purchase the property.  I believe he owns the property outright in a revocable trust and I know he has his hands full out of state with health issues and an ailing wife. It really seems like a great time to sell, but wondering if there's something I'm missing about why he would not want to do so at this time. I'd appreciate any insight. 

He prefers to communicate over email and is very brief. I am sure he has a lot on his mind right now, so don't want to be inconsiderate, but wondering how best to continue the conversation and find a solution that would work for both of us.