(preferably a contractor you know, give them a digital camera and a pocket voice recorder and ask them to visit and give you their opinion.Example...

@Parker Cox The first thing I did was learn how to research title on my own at the county recorders office.

1) I've located a few abandoned properties in my area, of Birmingham, AL but I would like to know who would be a good point of contact in the City or County Records Office, if anyone has experience dealing with the City of Birmingham?

During the first 30 day period, I bought the note, had the assignment recorded and currently having it boarded at FCI. 

Eventually they will be in a situation that requires getting the judgement off their  record/credit history, and you'll get paidOn the other hand, if you think there's any chance she might trash the place on her way out, maybe letting her leave is a good strategy.Sounds like a conversation needs to happen.Just my 2cD

Check licensing records and references of recent jobs.

Recording studios are being built in Detroit etc.

"Forfeited" to the county means absolutely nothing in Michigan.Even after the "Foreclosure" the counties are still hoping the owner will come in and work out a payment plan.I've seen properties that said "forfeited" four years in a row and  the county never did the "foreclosure" even though nothing was paid on any of the "forfeiture" years.In most cities the record will not change until the new owner files the PTA.

I am working on posting an add on Craig's list, as well as possibly pulling records of cash buyers from the courthouse.  

Should I just focus on researching the house and neighborhood.Attached are some pics I took and links to the videos I recorded at the property.