Direct Mail Driving for Dollars

[Chris Payne]

Hi team, I'm hoping someone can help me out. If my questions have already been answered somewhere on BP, forgive me. 

I just started driving for dollars today. I identified 156 distressed properties in an old, but up-and-coming part of town. Should I just send out letters to all 156 properties or should I filter down further in some way (i.e. amount of equity; back taxes; absentee owner; etc)?

I'm trying to decide from a Return on Time/Investment standpoint.

Also, if I do multiple mailings, should each mailer be different (i.e. language, format)? If so, how?

Where can I find direct mail samples with the appropriate verbiage? 

[Adrien C.]

When they ask on the phone what I'd pay, I never give an answer. I tell them I really need to see the inside before I can make an offer. I want to speak in person and really dig in to their motivation to sell. I want them to see me inspect the house so they really understand what needs to be done. After looking at house and talking, I'll ask what they want. I won't give a number first. I've already run comps so I know where I need to be and can negotiate from the number they start with. Sometimes there number is where I need it so I take it without squeezing more out.