contacting an owner directly

[Stacey Olson]

Okay, so I realize that this question has probably been asked a million times, but I'm new enough around here that I'm going to justify asking it again, simply because I'm still learning the ropes and am not quite sure where to find the information:

What are the rules (spoken and otherwise) about contacting a property owner directly when a property is listed with a real estate agency?  We're looking at making an offer on a triplex that has been on and off the market for 4-6 months.  The owner is out of state (a seasoned investor with 9 pages of deeds, transfers, etc. at the county assessor), and we're thinking we'd like to look at cutting out the middle man (like, "if you decide to delist and want to talk about options, let us know").  Neither of us are brokers as yet, but we're pretty sure there are contracts in play and want to be sure not to burn bridges in the process of moving forward.  WWYD (what would you do)?

Thanks!

Stacey Olson