Contacting the owner of a vacant residence

[Adam Shaddy]

Hi BP, 

From a newb...

I found a house that I believe could have a lot of potential as a flip. The current owner bought the property in 2011 for dirt cheap, apparently started a remodel, but then stopped. The house has been now sitting for several years without any work. There is piles of garbage/materials in the front yard, and the drive-way entrance's have chain link fences in front of them. 

I contacted the county and found out who the owner is and they were able to provide me the information. I plan on reaching out to him, but wanted to ask if there was a better strategy than others to use when reaching out. I have heard some people say they've always written letters by hand, and others say that is a waste of time. 

As real estate investors, what do you think it the best tactic to use? I want to impress this guy from the beginning, as I'm ultimately going to try to convince him to sell me (and my partners) his property. 

Thanks in advance!

Adam