[djburdine]

I was wondering if there is a way I can take over abandoned houses on my block. They have been abandoned for over 15 years and wondering if I can take control of them?

[AK lawyer]

No. That would be trespassing.

It may be abandoned, but somebody owns it, whether it's the record owner, the estate or heirs of that owner, perhaps a mortgagee which has foreclosed, or perhaps even the government.

I suggest that you research with your local tax assessor's office or recorder's office and find out who does own it. You might be able to buy it quite cheaply from that person or entity.

[ScottGem]

Yes, actually there is. You can find out who the owner of record is and track them down and offer to purchase the property.

Any other attempt to control the property would, in fact, be trespassing or might even be considered theft.

[Fr_Chuck]

Someone is either paying the taxes or the county (or state) owns them. So someone owns them. You will find that owner, and attempt to purchase the property from them.