Chicago Off-MLS Property ( Foreclosure?)

[Frank S.]

Hi Bps, 

Well, I found a distressed seller through my off-MLS search. Any tips are appreciated. I know I need a lawyer.

The seller is offering teh property through  Deedclaim Quit transaction. He claimed bankcruptcy last year.

Water bill either: $5,706 or $11,000, house was vacant for 8 years. The City of Chicago apparently doesn't' give them a straight information.

Q1:

Can I obtain this information from Chicago without a lawyer?  Can water bills be negotiated?

As for the property taxes someone is supposedly taking over the house by paying off the taxes.

Q1: I wonder who this "someone may be", see info below

Taxes due $1,222 (I checked online)

Closing cost: 3,000

Asking: $10,000

Liens:  $23,000

Seller is asking $39,900 in case there may be a few more issues I'm not aware of that may come up at closing.  In case....

I think this smells very strange.

Can anyone recommend a lawyer in Chicago. I don't want to involve my attorney ( family member) on this project.

Thanks!

Frank