The reason is that actual balances are not public records data, so your only other alternatives to getting it from the owner are to call their lender and pretend to be them (illegal), or get access to their credit report (likely illegal too unless you get borrowers permission and at that point you might as well just ask for their statements).With that out of the way, the question then becomes how can you best guess at their balance.

However, I would recommend to use the rule of thumb formula # of lots x lot rent $ x 12 x 10 cap x (.6 if private utilities or .7 if public utilities .5 if park has less than 30 lots).  

@Ned Carey Since investors rely on the public records search for the Note to find out what is owed on the property through the amortization schedule calculator, it would seem that this is a educated guess so how close is the mortgage debt to the calculation?  

Take it from a guy who took 12 property acquisitions in 1.5 years, it really really takes a toll on your mental/physical health

It's all public record.

Is it on public sewer and water?  

But you can also find Allegheny County certified master plumbers who live within a zip code using this Health Department page.http://webapps.achd.net/Plumbing/Let me show you how this can work:In the 15025 zip code (Clairton), there are 12 guys on the registry.

Look up community health training- mortgage donations. 

I am fairly flexible in my job (home health physical therapist and occupational therapist).

Would it be considered "Soliciting securities" if I publicly advertise that I'm looking for someone to hold a mortgage on a house for me?