Look up ideal existing performing properties, your "hero's" as it were, find out who own's it, and reach out to them. 

For instance, properties with an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the lot that can be implemented as a long-term or short-term rental can perform exceptionally well.

the company I went with was 12k and performed high quality work.

Title companies perform detailed title searches, revealing all recorded liens and their positions, ensuring you have a clear understanding of any potential encumbrances.

In fact, for tax sales in PA, the parcel number check is usually best performed first, to see what mortgages can be found (if any); seeing a big mortgage means it's best to move on to the next property on the list.And on a side note, IRS liens can be wiped out at foreclosure of any kind, provided the IRS lien is in a junior position and provided that proper notice is served upon the IRS. 

I have recently started writing down addresses of run down or abandoned properties that I would like to purchase, but I only have the owner's name.

Still own it and performing very well.

An investor focused agent should also be able to help you determine what the future performance of a property looks like by producing you a nice proforma with budgets and projections.  

I find the sellers want some of the upside of the future performance and the deal will not work if you do not achieve a substantial portion of it. 

I only spoke with one person so far and they scheduled for more information gathering/ rental investment calls from them this upcoming week.