As to recovering money in a lawsuit, LLC's being lapsed, and why someone would not contest a lawsuit in court. 

I also have witnessed very serious investors do an appraisal on the property before a refinance or sale to have something in their back pocket in case they need to contest the banks appraisal. 

The former owner can contest the tax sale, reclaim the property, and pay only the taxes and 12% redemption interest, but will not be required to pay for preservation improvements or insurance premiums. 

You can contest a higher Tax bill and go before the Board with all your Evidence.

I think there are a few places that hold them for a couple years to get rid of the redemption /contest issue and then resale them either at auction or on the struck off list.So you want to know what is the situation, before you immediately begin fixing the house.   

@Quinton Slay,It sounds to me like she really doubts you, so with that, I personally wouldn't buy real estate  (or any large, legal contract) with someone who doubts me, b/c then you'll be in a contest to see who was right, which sounds like a relationship crapshoot!     

That's not a guarantee of being on the show, just that I was in the pool of possible contestants. 

They wouldn't really be able to contest it given what you have said.What do they say in response to the delays when you ask them?

Some HOA attorneys try to contest this but there is case law. 

From my understanding there will need to be an Affidavit of Heirship completed if this goes under contract, which will give way for the step-daughter to contest the sale, etc.As of now I'm staying away unless there is a work around I don't know about.Grateful for any advice.