Cold Calling on Houses

[Kyle Kapp]

I just picked up a list from the county of notice of defaults. Has anyone had any success cold calling on these? My wife is willing to make the calls, which seems like it may be advantageous. How do you start that conversation with someone?

Similar question: Have you ever just called on a property that is not for sale and had success? 

Last night my wife and I walked through the neighborhood scouting out duplexes  (not for sale). Today I have been trying to find contact info on the owners to call them.