Need advice on approaching an out of state owner

[Ace Saxon]

I know of a house that is empty and the owner plans on selling eventually, what would be the best way to approach them? Here is a little of the back story. The owner is a family member of a good friend, and the owner pulled some underhanded stuff to get possession of the house after my friends father passed away (it wasn't the fathers house, he sold his to move in with and take care of his elderly mother). So needless to say this guy is a real piece of work. I know he plans on selling the house after doing some repairs because I talked to the neighbors and I am pretty sure if he can sell without putting money into it, he will. The reason I am asking for advice is I am very new to REI and this will be the first time talking to an owner myself. Thanks in advance.