Also, this isn't hard rule, but whenever you see "c/o" or "%" in the mailing address it generally indicates a deceased owner so it's likely an estate scenario so I would look for and prioritize those as well.  

If I can't find the relatives of the deceased to encourage them to open probate and sell the property as a Personal Representative, do I have any other options?

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That's your business, not mine.I've been working deceased and missing owner properties for probably longer than you've been alive.

I am considering purchasing an hoa foreclosure where the original owner is deceased, and the HOA is foreclosing on his estate for lack of payment of dues.

They are not related to each other or the deceased property owner.  

If you are on the immediate borders of DC or near the metro- prices are higher vs living near Deanwood or Congress Heights Station...Congress Heights is a get in now before it's trendy situation....It will be the next hot neighborhood in 5 years, easily...I have been here 2 years and already would not be able to afford to buy a house in my neighborhood if I were buying today. 

Living in the border you are able to see the "rich dad, poor dad"  philosophy first hand. 

After further research, I believe the condemned status may be due to the fact that both the original owner and his heirs appear to be all deceased; it's basically owned by the county, for its $22K in back taxes & no contact from (deceased) owners for at least 8 years.Wholesaling is exactly why I'm interested—and, I suspect, it may be as good a first deal as any, given its absence from any of the "pro" lists I've used.

My research indicates there were 4 partners, one of which is deceased.