Person behind on taxes contacted me!

[Justin Fox]

So I've talked to the owner and I initially low balled her with a cash offer (in addition to paying the back taxes).  She declined but had previously said she was willing to finance the property and her price range was very attractive.  She's supposed to call/text me a date/time to do a walk-through.

Anyway, I plan on consulting a local real estate attorney to draw up a contract if the deal goes through and we shake hands.  Would the seller and I meet at the attorney's office to sign and bring earnest money?  Does the attorney bring the contract and money to the title company?

Also, what is the best option for keeping track of the payments to know the principal balance and payment ratio of principal/interest down the road?  It is as simple as going to bankrate.com, printing out the amortization and just scratching through every month?  Are there 3rd parties available that will handle this for you?

We just built a rental so I'm going to see if I can't get my contractor to come out with me and walk through the house and give me an estimate of the repairs/upgrades.

Anything I should watch out for?  Want to make sure I'm not overlooking anything.

Thanks,

Justin