Help! Need input on how mailing lists work

[Gage Clark]

Hello,

I'm new to the game. I'm looking at mailing lists. How much should I pay per 1,000 properties? How many post cards should I send to the same address and what return/response rate should I expect? Has anyone ever had luck building their own organic list?

I know nothing is exact in this business, so I'd appreciate hearing about your experiences. Any help is a HUGE help! Thank you!!!