Wholesaling Burnt Down Home

[Kendall Smith]

I’m in the process of wholesaling a property that is about $50k behind on delinquent taxes. The property is in a trust, and I was able to get into contact via email with I believe a relative. Seller informed the house burnt down and the double garage is still standing. Based from the County Assessor’s website, the value of the land was assessed for $613k, structures at $110k and the total value at $723k. I haven’t been able to see any construction in the area, however, in the last 6 months homes are being sold in the $600k-$900k range.

I told her the property may be going up for sale at the property tax sale auction in the spring. As well, I told the seller it will take a few months to do our due diligence (inspect water, sewer, zoning, what needs to be done to build, how much it will cost to tear down the garage that is still standing). Seller told me that’s she interested in selling, but would like to transfer the deed into her name since it’s in a trust. I sent the seller links to contact the county and a title company.

Seller agreed to discuss over the phone this Saturday, I just want to be prepared for our phone call. How can I best assist the seller? Anything I could do better? How do I make an offer for this property that will make sense for a buyer/builder? Would it take a while to find a buyer?

Thank you! I appreciate your input!