You don't need to lick one stamp, address not even one envelope or send a silly yellow letter.You don't need to spend money on marketing, learn how to negotiate with sellers who have let the world know they want to sell.Practice "contract engineering" and "Power Prospecting" and you'll have more business than you can work!

John Anderson Do you buy your tenants stamps so they can mail you a check?

I've read that some AHJs don't require stamped drawings for single story residential homes for example (not sure if that is common or less common). 

We sent machine printed yellow letters with hand addressed envelopes and regular first class stamps. 

Also, the online methods really reduce the excuses that I get from tenants that they didn't have a stamp, or the bank was closed, or a million other things I've heard, when really they just forgot or didn't want to pay on time.

A 3rd party, the bank, time stamps the transfer so no disputes with tenants on when rent was actually paid.  

I had to send stamped copies of my work contracts, as well as letters of employment from my 2 employers that stated my monthly salary in CNY and USD, duration of employment, job title, and work responsibilities.

Also unplugged all the stuff sitting around so there isnt a risk of electrical issues.... adn took LOTS of pictures with the phone (to time/date stamp everything).

Usually two weeks with no utilities, have not heard from them; call, email etc... for abandonment, Just be careful removing personal items; take lots of picture with time and date stamp.

If you don't agree with it, what would you recommend to a new investor who hasn't really established any connections or made a stamp in the REI world?