Thank you very much, I just got off the phone with him and he told me that I had to get it out of the land in 1 week, so I think I'm going to go ahead and pass on that offer.

I've learned to give him a heads-up, that I have a few things here and there that need attention.  

@Michele FischerOkay now I have a new place to visit so I can say I have been to TWO Longviews!!

i would say kitchen and bath. they dont really notice paint and and floor that much. then again, they would not visit every property posted.

Lately have been looking into TX, and although I know the market has been nuts lately, I am slightly biased towards areas that I wouldn't mind visiting.

Just visit lots of rural counties (and even in growing cities)  and you will see lots of properties available for Tax Sale. 

He decided to take my offer, and we are actually closing ahead of schedule.  

I am visiting the US later this month and realised it was time to sign up and get to know the community.

Although im no way an expert or experience if i were in that situation i would go ahead and veiw the property just because from what the seller is stating it may be move in ready and not require not much of any repairs besides the thermostat (hope its just that and nothing electrical).if so you may get an investor to puchase just below retail.

Make an offer, go visit the property when the offer is accepted during the inspection period.