I have the figures in my head already just need to put it on paper, start compiling paperwork and all that.

This is the process as I understand it so far:-go to the courthouse and compile your probate list-direct mail campaign-when you find a deal, put the house under contract with the executer or administrator of the estate, after they have filed a "letters testamentary" or "letters of administration" with the court-Then go to the courthouse and file a petition for order concerning sale, purchase, or exchange of property (this costs $435 in my county).

I have a list my assistant compiled not too long ago with numbers.

I know that OPRA does not require public employees to compile a list that doesn't already exist so I guess that's what happ

Once you have compiled all pertinent information on the properties in which you're interested, choose the best investment option for your situation.

Great question...it may be a combination of sources...the U.S. economic development administration (www.eda.gov/resources) has a directory of state and local resources that compile some of this demographic, economic, jobs, and housing data around the U.S. ; that is a source for some big picture data, but for square foot construction or renovation in an area, maybe check with your insurers or local contractors (and that even varies based on size, type of building, area, etc)..

I look for homes with boarded up windows, over grown grass, mail falling out of the mailbox, etc  From here you will want to compile a list of addresses and either send them direct mail or call them and inquiry about the property. 

@Tyler Zimmerman so the county in question compiles the list for you and then charges you to recover their cost for compiling the list.

Private information also includes home address and personal license plates, except as otherwise provided by law or when compiled without possibility of attribution to any person.”

Along with the compiling other misleading things we were told, it all just became such an uneasy situation that my mom does not even trust she will ever get paid for the house sale and she just wants out.