New Member Intro - Cleveland, OH and ?? about delinquent taxes

[Paul Shepherd]

Hello BPers!  I am new to BP and ready to get serious about investing in real estate.  I live in Cleveland, OH.  I've always been interested in RE and I'm finally at a point where I'm ready to put some money, effort and know-how to work.  Too bad it's not a few years prior, however I do believe there are still some deals to be had out there, even with the run-up in prices. I'm ok with doubles instead of home runs right now. Just need to be diligent and make prudent decisions. I am mostly interested in small multi-family and perhaps single family as buy and hold rental properties. Cleveland (mainly west-side) and Akron area is where I have been looking, but somewhat open to other areas. 

I do have a question that I am looking for some guidance on.  There is a multi-fam property that I am looking at and the owner is backed up on taxes.  They owe about $12,000 total and I think the annual tax bill is around $2000.  How does that work if you want to buy a property with delinquent taxes?  Do I pay for it? Do they?  Is this a big bargaining tool I should be using to negotiate a lower price? (seems like I should).  Any guidance you guys can offer is much appreciated!

I look forward to getting more involved on BP and developing relationships with many of you, and more importantly start building my RE portfolio! 

Thanks, all!  

Paul