Just listen and be empathetic to her loss.  

Good people generally want to help, most of them can't really help, you can be empathetic but you still have to say no. 

Check comes (in person at the box usually) on the 6th like clockwork (which would normally be late for anyone else).The goal is to get the money, be reasonable but firm in most cases, and empathetic where it's warranted. 

Be empathetic to the situation and build rapport with the potential sellerBe understanding and show your motivation is to help them and their situationKnow your comps for the property (with or without the house on it)Make them an offer by telling them you would like to help take care of it for them as is (i.e. to take it off their hands and not have to worry about selling furniture, etc.)  

You might want to talk more with her about why she is late and be empathetic and supportive.

We always want to make sure we are compassionate and empathetic in difficult times for the family but also clear on what you need for next steps.

Empathetic, but not too much.

BraudeBe empathetic, trustworthy, professional, and be a closer and if they ever really intend to sell, you will be on the short list...but don't waste precious time.

There is nothing wrong with being empathetic about a person's situation if, in fact, it is a real hardship but never let rent lapse beyond a month because that snowball is going to keep getting bigger and out of control.

This is where my wife gets upset with me for being too empathetic, but given we are still seven months out and this is my first time doing this I wanted to see how unreasonable I am for asking for that much (first, last, deposit = $6K) up front so far away from the move-in.