HELP?! Getting something under contract when owner is far away..

[Summer Segeleon]

Hi guys.. So, I found a good deal on a property (FINALLY).. I called an out of town owner and asked if he was interested in selling. He said yes, and threw a number at me. I like the property and am pretty sure I want to get it under contract before someone else does (another investor stopped and grilled me while I was there looking at it! ) .. How do i do this when he is states away? Does one of us actually have to drive the distance , can I mail him a contract to look over, etc. etc. WHAT DO I DO??