If the contract isn't valid because you find there are other heirs, then  you have what you need (information) to get the ball rolling on the other heirs.

Then I usually give them a $20 for their trouble (gas or a quick lunch).

We'd be very happy just to break even.We had a bunch of initial expenses - lead testing revealed we had to replace all the windows and the oil furnace died so we are in the process of upgrading it to natural gas.

During the day he drinks with his buddies at the gas station on the corner up the road a bit, I think.

  Last place I bought  I  used a generator  to check  electrical And have used air to check for gas and water  leaks .A few 5 gallon buckets full of water dumped into drains  gives you a general idea about sewerIt lets me know what's working quick and then you do your bargaining as if it's all bad

@Ryan Howard a word of caution---being a real estate agent is NOT a good part time moneymaking possibility (it's time consuming to prepare to show property to buyers or to list them, plus gas & expenses of the business IMO).  

@Michael LautherThank you for the validation Michael!

How much would I spend for gas and milage or airfare?

HVAC workThe HVAC techs will be at the house Thursday and Friday and will be doing the work outlined below which comes straight from the contract we signed with themThe installation of (2) gas furnaces & (2) gas water heaters.WORK SHALL CONSIST OF:We shall remove and replace the 1st floors gas furnace.

You are entering into a contract with them when you give them money so make sure you understand all the terms of that contract.If a property has tenants with a valid lease and they are going to honor that lease obligation by paying rent, keeping the property in good condition, etc, you cannot remove them until their lease has expired.