Where to start with deceased owner, no heirs and in Pre-foreclosure

[Vanessa Blais]

So, while we were out canvassing, we came across a property that we were very interested in.  As we were walking around, a neighbor came by to tell us all about the house... the owner had died and the house had gone into foreclosure.  

I asked if there were any heirs and the neighbor said "Nope, there were no heirs."

I've found the Lis Pendens filing in the county records, but no probate filing. 

Where would I start with this house, since, as I recall, you need the owners permission/cooperation to do a short sale, and the owner is deceased?