I actually have a camera also, but a good camera is a bit pricey. in Utah, and other areas they used lead to seal the pipes and trees like to penetrate the lead and create havoc.

A fiberglass system costs more, but provides more durability over the long term and reduces the chances of a negligent tenant not making a water penetration issue notice to management.  

Any "hindrance" to your investing business is probably a myth, but when you embrace the creative and the traditional side, you can forget "exit" strategy and work more to sell the homeowners that you are their solution no matter what.You may put it under contract and find there are no buyers at that price.... if you've convinced the homeowner you ARE the solution, its easy then to switch it to a listing and still monetize the lead.Not to mention, sounds like MLS access would help you with your research.Good luck!

Their personal space requirements are much larger but you can have a powerful impact if you learn how to penetrate their barrier(s). 

These two factors, along with the tenants' thermostat setting probably account for most of the variance.The other thing to look at from a weatherization perspective, beyond insulation, doors and windows, is looking for air leaks from penetrations of the top plates by wiring and plumbing, outlets, soffits, plumbing and chimney chases, etc.  

I embrace hard work, the knocks, the kicks, and the lessons with open arms.Thanks for your welcome.

So embrace, the fear, let it lead you to success not analysis paralysis. 

Your letters most likely will not penetrate the owners, especially having them clicking on a we buy house website.  

There is one that stands out over and above the rest...I wrote the following article as my first BiggerPockets Blog post -- to this day, I believe it's the most important advice I have ever (or ever will) be able to provide to other investors/entrepreneurs:http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2010/02/10/controlling-your-real-estate-deals-manage-catastrophe/Ignore it at your own peril...or embrace it and find that everything in your business becomes less frustrating, more productive and more in-control...

I just called a mold removal company and they said they could penetrate walls to treat mold.