Thomas - I believe that it is out of print and a little dated but this was the book that first motivated me to get started with rental properties. 

The finer details of each asset will influence the price.  

Will it be OK to send out mailers to motivated sellers (like absentee owners) and then wholesale it?

Im two weeks into my marketing and have developed two solid contracts with motivated sellers.

The builder may or may not have had problems but neighbors may have raised heck or collectively made an offer purchasing an interest in specific lots to "protect" the homeowner's property values.A trick of builder developers is to build nicer homes first, then infill latter with cheaper homes allowing the nicer home to influence price, they also add commercial later on as either depresses value of the nicer home built first.

Like @Kevin Tran says, don't make it right after inspecting the property (unless they are extremely motivated and facing deadlines where speed is necessary).  

I need someone motivated to help me find what I'm looking for.

I don't see how they would be significantly more motivated to sell then married folks.  

We're slowing selling off and focusing on one area where I can also start to influence lease rates, and property sales.

I LOVE this type of thing and when i talk real estate with my current friends and what my plans are, I can literally see their eyes glaze over.... not very motivating..