Drive around and figure out a few areas you would like to live in with your budget.

It is possible, but you have to put in the work; driving for dollars, mailer campaigns, cold calling, building lists, etc.  

An in person meet (even if you have to drive 4 hours) would be the best way.

Even if they have cash, the management expectations + distance will usually make it more of a hassle unless you are really buying it for you to use and rent out whenever safely.

This limited inventory will likely continue to drive prices upward.Sales - Median $/SF by MonthThe $/SF decreased slightly MoM, conforming to the seasonal trend.

This influx of workers will naturally drive demand for housing, retail, and other services in the surrounding areas, especially in smaller towns and cities that haven't seen major growth in decades.

No off-street parking = not worth doing MTR unless it meets all of the following: super urban area where no parking is the norm, highly desirable area with a ton of MTR demand, super safe part of the city, and has great public transportation (think NYC, Hoboken NJ, etc.)Unless it meets all of the criteria above, I pass on those opportunities because my MTR will be eliminating the many people that travel with their vehicles.

Plus, the population growth and job market around Tampa keep driving rental stability, making it a solid choice for both cash flow and long-term equity.

And I do have the photos at the end by design, because I want a person to end the experience with a specific feeling of "oh wow, look at that, it's got that too", which helps drive conversion. 

. :)Anyway, I like your strategy of driving and looking for houses in need of repair and sending handwritten letters and contacting rentals for the reasons you gave.