Making the Offer

[James Harkness]

I have located a 3bed/1.5 bath row home in a nice part of Philly that is vacant and boarded up. Did some research and found that it is owned by a 72 yr old who lives out of state. I want to make an offer on the home. I cannot find a phone number, but do have a mailing address.

My question: How do I approach/make an offer. Obviously I will have to send a letter, but how do I say, "Are you willing to sell the property?" and if so, how do I say, "I want to pay you the least possible for it. What is that number?". Clearly I would never say it that way, but essentially that is what I am trying to accomplish. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys.