How to buy property from someone who passed?

[Jackie Escamilla]

I live in Illinois and about a year ago my neighbor passed away. No one has moved in the property has been untouched I checked with the tax assessors office her property taxes were not paid for last year. How can I go about purchasing this property? Is it a long process? I read something about a probate, from what I read it is a long process. Are there alternatives? My goal is to purchase (if possible) and maybe rent or flip depending on how much work would have to be done.

Your thoughts and wisdom will be much appreciated.