Absentee Owner, Logistics?

[Luke Buettner]

I am marketing to absentee owners that live more than 4 hours away from my market. Naturally, I will be talking with sellers on the phone. 

My question: How does the dealflow tend to look like? Do you normally get to see inside before purchasing? If yes, do they make a trip to visit? Or do they typically have family that lives closer who can grant me access?

Do you always scan/fax the documents, or do you mail the documents?

Please only reply if you have actually done this type of deal before. Thank You!