Need advice on entering the property

[Ari Garipov]

Hello BP community! I've just got my first lead from the first round of direct mail campaign, and would like to get your advice. A lady from New York wants to sell her house in West Philly. The house is occupied by her grandchildren who don't have good relationship with grandma, the owner. In order to inspect the property, the lady recommended me to introduce myself to occupants as "from building department" or use some creative/salesman tricks. If I introduce myself as it is, saying that I want to inspect the house per owner's approval, they just won't let me in.

What would you recommend in this situation? 

[Kerry Baird]

Any rehabbers want to chime in?  I don't like the idea of misrepresenting myself.  This is a proper business and you should run it all above board.  That said, you might ask the woman for a letter from her, for credibility that you are acting on her behalf.  In any event, I'd have a business card.  

What is your thought on the deal? Can you make an offer to the woman and estimate costs to rehab, sight unseen? Are the occupants actually on a lease?  Would you plan to evict, pay cash for keys or what? Think it through.  This is a problem for the grandma, and you need to put on your problem-solving hat.  Among other thoughts, I might research Philadelphia eviction laws.