Trying to purchase REO's from bank

[Kim Clifton]

Hello BP. I am learning so much from everyone on BP and so humbled by the willingness of people, who are extremely busy, to take time out of their day to coach us newbies in our ventures. I've been searching couple months for distressed properties on MLS, realtytrac & my realtor. I'm using what I've learned on BP & my step by step guide for choosing the right house from @J Scott's flipping book. To date.... Nothing worth purchasing. I want to go to local banks and talk with REO (acquisition) departments and I have proof of funds. My questions are:

Should I call ahead? Should I have specific properties in mind? Should I have some type Of cover letter or something in writing other than proof of funds to help get my foot in the door.

Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated. I plan on starting a blog about my first REO flip as soon as I find a property. The good, The bad & All THE SCARY that being a new investor brings. Thanks again everyone!! :)