It sounds like if we are making verbal offers, I should make sure my realtor really stresses that I am ready and capable to make the offer and have the numbers to justify my offer price, and also make sure the "offer" is reaching the ears of the seller and not stopping at his/her realtor.But I think I'm leaning toward official full package offers with a "heads up" call from my realtor to the seller/seller's agent.

If you don't have a marketing budget for at least 6 months how else do you plan on getting the phone to ring??

Get ready for an earful.

Right now I'm renting in my hometown of Oakland, CA and paying through my ears in rent.

Your phone will start ringing.......a LOT.You could also do the same thing to find cash buyers, just with different writing on the signs geared towards cash buyers.

I'm all ears for any other options/products. 

It is probably be better to hire a property management company for your rental projects so you can concentrate more on income production and headaches every time your phone rings.  

Or if you have a little money you can use Slybroadcast and the phone will be ringing off the hook! 

Any pointers or tips I am all ears. 

First, keep your ears open.