Contacting Motivated Sellers

[James Lee]

Is there a way I can get the e-mail address or phone number of an absentee owner (or probate)? What are other ways I can contact them besides via snail mail? Thanks.

[Rick H.]

In 35 years of investing, 25 devoted exclusively to probates, I can tell you that I've only had two (2) people who seemed grief-stricken. It's always about stuff. Who gets what stuff, who's gonna pay for this, who's gonna deal with this stuff, etc.

I'm not at all suggesting anyone be insensitive. Merely, a week or two after death most surviving family members begin to explore their plans for making the adjustments needed and assessing what resources are required and similar thoughts.

Never send insincere condolence cards or sympathy notes. I suggest that after a couple of weeks it's ok to send a simple letter or card and offer to discuss options should they have an interest in selling or even just need help to find a particular service. No pressure.