Thinking about changing my offer strategy for MLS deals

[Scott Hughes]

So, I imagine I'm having a similar problem I'm finally getting over that a lot of rookies face. That is overcoming the notion that I need to see a piece of property to put an offer in on it. I'm pretty much there, and on board with the idea, seems popular amongst many I've read/talked to. I just wanted some thoughts from the group mind on a couple points.

1. What are the "gotchas" of doing this. And by the same token, advantages?

2. Since these are on-market deals I'm talking about, and will likely involve my buyers agent, what are some points to make with her I can use to overcome what I'm sure will be seen as some kind of cognitave dissonance, since typically it would be unheard of to offer a house sight unseen (in normal circumstances, with a standard buyer).

(At this point I feel compelled to ask that you don't point out that I need to be shopping "off-market" deals. I know, and I am, but that topic is a whole 'nother Oprah.)

3. If you do this, how do you handle (i.e., what do you write into the offer) for Due Diligence and Earnest ($ and time). Also, what extra contingencies may be good ideas to include.

Thanks in advance! 

SDH