How to Secure Pre-Foreclosure Deals?

[Branden Wintermyer]

I am on the hunt to find some deals since I typically can't find good deals on the MLS. I found a few properties on Zillow that are in pre-foreclosure or accepting bank offers (is there a difference?), however, there is no person listed to contact? Who do I contact to find out more on those properties? Do I contact the lawyer? Is it even possible for me to directly contact the bank who owns the properly to offer a price on the home before it goes to auction? If so, what are all the steps to acquiring property this way?

Thanks for the Help!