Pre-Foreclosure Advice, getting the ball rolling

[Jim Bryant]

So I think I understand Pre-foreclosures pretty well.  The mortgage is not being paid and the bank is going to foreclose.  The homeowner can avoid this through selling it for an amount that the bank is willing to accept.  Super.

The only issue is how do I make a move on the property.  It seems as if I have to contact the homeowner directly.  Any info on how to find contact information for the home owner?  Do you usually use official sources such as court documents, or go through the white pages?  

Finally, what's your strategy, do you send a letter, call them?  Do you make an offer or do you ask them what they think would be fair?   Also, does the pre-foreclosure process allow for any inspections of the property and such, like a contingency in conventional purchasing?