What steps to take with deserted property and nearly deserted

[Jordan Scoggins]

In my home town there are 2 interesting properties.  One property is in a great neighborhood, but has been vacant since the owner died 3 years ago.  My real estate agent tried to get in contact, but got no reply.  I'm sure I'm not the only investor in the area who has tried.  What steps would you take if you were in this situation?

The second property is owned by an older gentleman who is spending more and more time in another state taking care of his mother who is in bad health.  I talked to him recently and he said he wasn't sure what he is going to do with the property.  I told him I was interested, but he was obviously a little frazzled with the situation.  He currently is now back taking care of his mother.  How should I pursue this so I'm not a pest?