Tax delinquent properties

[Ryan MacDonald]

I've been looking at tax delinquent properties in Texas and have run across some that are 8, 9, 10+ years delinquent on property taxes and wonder how these haven't been sold at auction yet. I understand that at times, if the person has the property as homestead exempt and are elderly, the county won't usually foreclose on the property because they are elderly. Is this true? Is there a way one can purchase a tax deed certificate or something along those lines even though the county isn't moving forward in the foreclosure? Of course speaking to them directly and finding a solution to their problem is the optimal way to go, but if they know they can live in the house until they die without repercussion, then what incentive do they have to sell if the mortgage is paid for besides leaving it to their heirs if they have any? Just curious as I look to start marketing to these homes.