Vacant house next door, attempt to purchase. No owner.

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I have landed in an interesting spot that could have some great outcomes. 

We purchased a twin home to flip and 8 months in the owner next door has yet to be seen. There has been snow on the driveway for 2 months with no tracks. A main concern that we have is -10 outside, and no one checking the place. 

The owner paid cash, only person on title and has passed away. 

I really don't want this thing hitting the market and selling for cheap as that would screw up my comps. The value move in ready should be about 200k, but in its current condition would sell for much less on probate.

The only option I see is to purchase. Have found someone to put up the cash. I feel very comfortable with the risks associated with HML, and find it very ideal to own my first rental home in direct proximity.

Have spoke with the county, has not hit probate yet. Finding family has not been easy as they have very common names. 

How do I get an offer put in?

How do I take the emotion out of the situation, yet still empathize while throwing a lowball offer out if someone can be located?

What's the best way to find contact information for what seems to be an estranged family? 

I'm too far in to give up now, but feel like I've exhausted all my ideas. 

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!