Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Pennsylvania
Pa Quit claim deed
Hi, I am quit claiming a deed on an abandoned house. do I need to put the owner's name on the quit claim form if I can't find them, and the house has been abandoned and owes taxes?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Pa Quit claim deed
You do not have the authority to transfer or sign a deed for a property if you are not the owner.
Re: Pa Quit claim deed
I'm not sure of what you are asking. If the house is abandoned and owes taxes the City may have acquired it by a Treasurer's Sale. At one time the City had a list of such properties for sale and a homestead type of program where you could acquire the property upon an agreement to repair the property. If you are trying to buy the property I would first contact the municipality. Even if there were another way to acquire the property for example by adverse possession (it is difficult to say whether or not there is another way without knowing more of the facts) I would not suggest claiming the property unless it is free and clear of other liens and encumbrances.