thanks for all the responses!! It turns out that the person we spoke to was just a renter and the owner actually left the country a year ago! The renter refused to give the owners details when we asked. So is there a way to talk to the bank directly and get the home and the trustee sale postponed?

Also, what happens at the auction? when does the home come back to market as REO? is it when no one buys it at the auction?

You guys have been very very helpful and am really glad to be part of this forum! Thanks all again!