OR do you actually take a trip to visit all properties then decide? 

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..

Although, I do know some investors that can make it work, so if you decide to go out there get in touch with @Jake Leicht as he does a lot of investing in the area and perhaps guide you in the right direction and buy a deal from you.But honestly, Alameda and Contra Costa county right where you are both have 200-250+ Notice of Defaults (preforeclosures) EACH every month.

Read Beginner’s Guide to help you get started: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingI hope BP helps you achieve your goals!

Read the whole section of the servicing guide, not just the top paragraph. 

If you have a good agent, trust your agent, they should be a great guide and tool for you.

If you think they'll shrug you off, you'll be surprised.As you figure out the best strategy for you and what these deals look like, you can start meeting with investor-friendly agents to help guide you further and start analyzing deals. 

As you’re probably aware, navigating the zip areas can be a little tricky since it’s street to street, which is why we’ve developed a free zip code guide to help navigate the areas.

I was able to make the trip as I had some other work, purchase a new mailbox ($30) and remove the old/install the new in less than 10 minutes.

There are great people here which could guide me in the right direction and I appreciate any advice.