Buying Out of State. Viewing homes digitally? How to carry out?

[Bryan Tasumi]

I am planning to purchase out of state. I have a buyer's agent right now that I am communicating with. Can/should I tell my buyer's agent to show me homes electronically (i.e. via Skype or phone video cam)? Do you think this would be smart so I can make an offer? Should I fly over first before making the offer or, if I have money, should I just put earnest money down (contingent on inspections?) if I am fairly confident that I am going to buy the house? I don't want to fly there and then have the property be taken/sold.