I don't know if you have anyway to sort stuff into how many times certain topics have been posted or not.

Finding out their real needs and motivation is the key.

Any experience with this sort of play?

Pretty good area, sort of on the buffalo fringe, but West Seneca insane taxes keep the riff-raff out.

What motivation would the bank have to sell at a discount if they still hold a first lien?

if they don't take it, move on to a more motivated seller... nothing is more frustrating or time-consuming, as a newbie in this business, than dealing with an idiot who has an inflated perceived value of their property.

I don't have a good feel for expenses on this sort of building.

Sort the list by sale data, lot size and living area.

Having very little resources at the moment, I wanted to build a war chest of sorts, along with some experience, so that I could possibly ask a partner into the deal and feel like I have something to offer them when making the proposal.

Make a sign, send a letter to all realtors, mortgage brokers, and any other sort of professional in the business inviting them and invite them to bring their friends.The best groups start with 2-3 like-minded people meeting.