Owner Won’t Sale Abandoned Home

[Norman Alsumairi]

Hey BP Community, just wanted to ask a question and hopefully gain some insight.

I’m in Modesto, CA and there’s a property on my block that I want to purchase because it’s been empty for probably 10-20+ years. I did some digging around and found out that the owner died but that someone was paying taxes on the property every 4-5 years right before it goes to auction.

I found the elderly lady that is still in possession of the property and I made her an offer to buy it. Mind you the property is in need of heavy rehab as well as the landscape.

She denied my offer and I let her know how bad her property is because she didn’t even know herself. She said that it’s not on her priority of things to worry about.

I really want to rehab the property and flip it or rent it out but how do I get the elderly woman to make a deal with me that’s reasonable?

Also I’m sure there are drug addicts or homeless going in and out of the property that has fire damage.

[Aaron K.]

You don't.  You can't convince someone to sell who doesn't want to.  You are looking at this house as an investor. How much it costs to fix up, what it's value is, how much money you can make on it etc.  The seller is likely the child of the previous owner and may have grown up in the house giving it sentimental value that they are willing to pay for.  You found a great lead but if the seller doesn't want to sell right now that is all it is; a lead.  Don't be too pushy and follow up every few months.