How To Buy Abandoned Homes

[Sarah S.]

Recently while looking to buy a personal residence, I ran across numerous homes in a very desirable area that have recently been abandoned and not yet on the market. I am wondering when running across properties such as these,

a. Is it possible to buy these homes before they go on the market?
b. What process do I take to make an offer for it?
c. Any other advice?

I have been away from RE investing for a LONG time and when I was in it I was pretty much assisting a friend who was a RE Investor but we mainly dealt with re-habs and such. In just a few hours on one day, I located over 35 homes abandoned and now wondering what opportunities are possible with pursuing these homes to sell. Any advice and input is welcomed. In Houston area.

Thanks.