Has anyone ever had any success or experience in using public records to find absentee owners, tax delinquent owners who would be more motivated aka financial problems.  

What is the best way to mail merge files gathered from county records? 

If you get a contractor, I would recommend recording the conversation and going into detail.

Many of these operators have no IT system whatsoever as they are keeping written records and they have a number of reminder safeguards in place as part of their written policies and procedures to make sure that their customer’s NPI is properly protected.

Am not an expert on this but here are possible first steps:;Dont just drive by, When you see potential candiate property, stop and ask questions from the neighbours, search the net for the last transaction on the property, visit the county office for available city records..etc.

If the record owner is deceased, absent a secured creditor gaining title via foreclosure, you'll need to find someone with standing to legally be able to pass marketable title to you.Determine PETIO:PropertyEquityTitleInterestsOpportunity.Check death certificate, obits, neighbors for leads re: relatives, social media, and obviously name search the decedent online. 

Hi Gabe - Banks are usually a little more conservative, especially on construction loans so without a big track record or a strong credit score/reserves it may be difficult.

So, the records show the sale price of only $20k and so my basis is very low to start with...  

If MOLD makes it to public record, good luck getting all of your $$$ back anytime soon.

I am not sure about Chicago and what is public record.