I can send something blind to the address, but how do I prove I'm the owner, especially if I don't know the tenants' names? 

This is certainly something that can be done.

Sounds like you are happy with the answers but here is something else to consider: NJ is a judicial foreclosure state so timeline to foreclose is multiple months at a minimum and could even be over a year depending on the tools you have.Is your lender a big institution or a smaller private lender?

But Scott is doing something other than what you do, which is seller financing owner occupied homes.

Something people who do owner financing should absolutely do is have loan escrowed for taxes and insurance 

So, I'd still have 3 more years to sell and take advantage of that benefit ... unless I'm missing something else.Will definitely keep in mind the occupancy rules, thank you!

you would have to give up some equity in the deal but something is always better than nothing.

When it comes to good cash flow, I’m usually aiming for something with strong upside potential—higher-end of the affordable market, in a gentrifying area, with a double-digit cap rate around 10%.

Perhaps you are onto something with virtual tours...

In terms of finding a partner, I would recommend partnering with someone who has something that you don't have (understands renovations, real estate experience, has money, etc.)