I picked up a 1997 Acura 2.2 from an estate. It has 105K miles on it. The owner is no longer with us and cannot attest to whether the timing belt was replaced. I do know that if it was replaced, it was within the last 2000 miles (dont ask). Is there a method by which I can look at the belt and determine if it has been changed recently.

See if there is an upper timing belt cover that can be removed. With only 2,000 miles likely on the belt, it should look brand new, showing no signs of wear, glazing, or cracking.

Remember to change all fluids and filters; i.e. engine oil and filter, transmission fluid and filter, brake fluid, antifreeze, and power steering fluid.