Seller can't afford to close - suggestions?

[William Dubinsky]

I've been under contract on an out of state SFH that was supposed to close mid-way through December. After several rounds of negotiations, repairs and inspections I wired my money to close only to find out the seller can't come up with the money he owes on back taxes, utility bills etc. He owes about $7k total before the banks will let him close. Does anyone have any suggestions??