@Kim Meredith Hampton I always say part of our job is being a therapist / social worker!

In May my friend and sometimes contractor that has an office next to my mixed-use commercial bldg ran into me one day and asked if I'd give him a price opinion on a house he and his 2 siblings inherited from their brother. 

Plenty of office space, lab testing space, and a parking garage. 

I have a co-worker who wants to move away from the area and is willing to sell his home to me.

If I were I would first look at the Tax Assessors Office or Tax Records Office (online for that City) and see who the owner is.

Or, you can ask me whatever about Subject To, Wraps, Lease Options, Land Contracts, Seller Financing & regular financing (I once upon a time was a loan officer) and the Phoenix / Glendale / Mesa / Gilbert / Chandler market of AZ is a great place for doing these.

Around 2005, a co-worker decided to do a lawn care business on the side and wanted me to help him.

The 2nd guy was actually a very dedicated worker.

I tried to do a deed in lieu with the bank because of the initial issues I had with their mortgage officer of being unethical.

Contact county assessor office.