Especially if they're in a hot market, most won't find any value from your type of contact.

They actively fight against appraising at a high value, and, as others have said, can be frustrating to deal with.I have seen instances where I see them do comparables 6+ months ago in an extraordinarily hot market (like Seattle recently), when obviously prices have gone up since then.

Houses in hot neighborhoods that need serious repairs? 

I too am investigating out of area properties since the market here is pretty hot.

Yes it hasBut the market is hot for homes

How do I get them in hot water with the insurance commission?

Also, what kinds of properties are "hot" on the valley?

You likely need to be in a very hot market to have a sufficient buyer pool at this price point.You do not state the condition of the property. 

The rental market has been super hot here the last two years.  

For instance, i bought a HOT house from a wholesaler and because i knew all the bank needed to do was order the appraisal and analyze the budget of the rehab and then the ARV, I could close in 2-3 weeks.