I have been to Markarth and have done all of the quests –with the exception of the abandoned house-- and I cannot talk with the Yarl about buying a house or becoming a Thane. Initially, upon first contact it was there in the dialoge selection and I clicked on it: never to be seen again. So, I was wondering if there was a condole command to reintroduce the option?

the same thing is happening to me : (

Have you done the quest for his father's shield yet? You have to be at least level 20 to start it. After that you can buy property.

Thanks Uriel . I haven't done this quest yet

Yes. I found it too and completed it.