Sounds like I can safely write them off only after I purchase the rental and start the renovations to ultimately rent it out.

However, i've never really seen the logic in taking those paths when you can just take the safe and slow approach. 

What is the best way to go about finding these property listings online before they go to the auctions?

The other method is to use a “safe harbor”, i.e., the specific procedures laid out by the SEC in Regulation D.  

But damned if I can find anything online about landlords using it!

Spend at least 2 hours per day researching online about your desired investment strategies.

My recommendation would be to get approved as a Landlord, contact the director's office and request that an inspection be completed before a tenant is selected (sometimes they will do this as long as you select a tenant within 14 days - which you want anyways), and have an online application and screening resource in place.  

Documenting your journey online or engaging on LinkedIn can also help expand your network.

Maybe also consider if they are "good people" that work in the community and just want a safe place to raise their family. 

Quote from @Zach Howard: Quote from @Jonathan Greene: If you are looking at properties in the US only on Zillow, and not seeing them in person (I know you are in Hong Kong), this is just an effort in futility because you can't underwrite single-family or small multifamily deals only online.