Re: Renter wants to buy house owner moved to different country

I strongly recommend you seek and hire legal counsel. You should get a transfer of title from the Landlord in that will be recorded of record in order to protect your purchase. Paying a mortgage does not give you a legal interest in the property. If taxes are not paid or if creditors sue a judgment can be entered as lien as the property. All the payments you make will be of no value. You are at substantial risk making payments while you do not have legal title. If I can help please contact me . Gerald Hershenson Esq. 215-579-9390

Re: Renter wants to buy house owner moved to different country

The owner of the property has the right to sell or not to sell, provided he complies with anti-discrimination laws. You may certainly buy the property from him, but you will need to satisfy the outstanding taxes at the time of purchase.

Assuming he does not want to sell or you cannot locate him, the house will be sold if the taxes are not paid. You could purchase the property at tax sale. If you do not, you may be able to rent from the new owner.

Whatever you do, you should monitor the tax situation to assure that a sale does not occur without your knowledge. You are well advised to have advanced knowledge and to possibly participate.

You have a complex situation with many options. You should speak to experienced counsel to assure you understand those options. Feel free to call or e-mail me on a free initial basis.