Neighbor Passed Away

[Kyle DeSimone]

Hello BP,

I know this is something discussed in a couple books and on BP but I wasn't sure what to search for. My neighbor just passed away on the dead-end street I live on. According to the city's website, he owned the multi-family he lived in. I love the street and the people that live here, it was very sad as he was always around to give a wave as you drove by and bug you about your grass being too long!

Either way, I am new and starting to look to invest in multi-families with my wife. This place, being on my street, is a great opportunity and I'd love to craft a letter to his family to see if I can maybe make an offer on it. Are there resources or links here to helping me write a letter as well as finding out who to address it to/tips and tricks etc? My offer will be a little lower than what they may get from listing it but I'm sure the family would love someone from the street to take it over (as well as my neighbors as we are a tight group). 

Thanks!

[JM Payne]

It's a sensitive time.  If you knew him, perhaps you can reach out to the family with sympathy and begin to build rapport by offering solace.  The probate process is generally long, so you're better off being patient and being a good neighbor. 

Also, depending on county, wills are often recorded...you can go to the courthouse and see where the property may end up and who the attorney is.  Contacting the attorney separately will be a better way to approach property acquisition, but estates have 7 years to settle, so it may be a while.

I hope that helps.  Good luck and cut your grass! :-P

- JM