If the utilities don't automatically revert to the landlord, call the power company every few days to see if the power was switched to another address or shut off.

I like getting all property addresses that are part of an estate, decedent's name, PR, heirs and attorney contact info.

I'm going to try to address all of the issues in one post.

what did the credit report give for previous addresses of this guy?

My plan was to break down the owner's address by ZIP and spend a Saturday going to each ZIP and door knocking.

Given that the website does not include it's address and business information in the footer, as required by law, is using the California State Seal without permission (it's obviously not a state run entity or affiliated in any way), and does not provide any details or information on who is behind the site and how they supposedly are affiliated with the attorneys who wrote the state exam....I would be highly suspect of anything this site has to offer. 

Thanks for addressing the depreciation techniques with MHP's, Brad.

The owner is 22 years behind on taxes and owes $43,000~ in taxes...The owner is listed at the same address...

finally if credit is lousy but they did not lie about their name and address than I would ask for: first month rent deposit (same amount as rent) and last month rent on 12 months lease!

The option agreement then becomes the sale agreement at the time of notice.Probably too hard for the gurus to teach.Otherwise, you need a purchase agreement and as you say, if things are not addressed in advanced or a sale contract to be used is not agreed to in advance, you can have issues. :)