Absentee Owners Lists

[Robert Burns]

What are the best sources for absentee owners lists? I am currently driving my areas looking for vacant/deserted properties but I obviously need to find the owners. Since most property that is wholesaled is vacant and in need of repair, I also work full time so finding the owners is time consuming. I know people use absentee owners lists and use mail outs. Is it best to write directly to the absentee owners or use post card program to blanket and area?