Is this even a viable proposition?

Brand is only part of the value proposition for HVA or WBH.

That may well prove to be a more fruitful proposition than trying to sell a house with an uncooperative tenant, and dog hair.

Many of those people actually sell their properties under a 1031 tax-deferred exchange to get the equity out of the state.And like @Charles Lemelle points out, it's nearly impossible to find property with a 1% rent-to-value ratio here.Trying to invest in condos here is also an expensive proposition as the condo fees are often very high.Last but not least, don't bank on appreciation. 

In CA, the taxes stay based on the original purchase price since a law passed back in the 1970's called Proposition 13.  

Here is an idea on how to have a conversation about the proposition. 1) Praise the tenant for a good track record.

Ok, I know this relates to an entirely different country  but the USA also has legislation governing unfair terms in consumer contracts and they probably entail similar legal doctrines.Basically the proposition is this.

The first is marketing you unique proposition, the second is a little more dicey. 

Then you can test different headlines, unique selling propositions and creative copywriting.Mailing 31 pieces?

@Rich Baer gave you the simplest path.Often tax lien bidders bid so high once they get judgment on the property they don't take title because it would cost them more money and be a losing proposition.