You would need to provide a proof of funds letter as the HML will want to make sure you are approved for the refinance.  

Usually all that's required is a letter from you (and possibly your attorney) notarized promising that you will make certain repairs within a certain time frame.The back wall repair doesn't seem like a big deal either from what you're telling us.

To date we have mailed 500 letters, some typed and some handwritten.  

In my state, CA, there are different level of powers, best evident by examining a document alternatively called probate Letters Testamentary (if subject the decedent's will) or Letters of Administration (intestate - no will).

If you are a Colleague with anyone that has NOT posted in the thread, and you want them to see your post, hold down the shift key, type the @ and the first 4 letters of their First or Last Name.

I have a probate letter I want to send out, but upon looking at my probate lead list, I see a few of the PR's are living at the same address as the decedent.

You will find that will a very well reseached and well managed fund, you can achieve consistent and reliable double digit returns, which is going to be very competitive if not exceed your return on SF investments in most situations.  

Maybe you decide you like the yellow letter strategy, for example.  

Things that will cost you extra are screening reports (all companies charge extra for these), a small fee to establish electronic bank transfers (if this is something you will need at all), letter mailings, and 1099-MISC tax form preparation. 

I have tried calling craigslist ads, driving by properties an sending out yellow letters but I seem to be reaching very few people by doing this manually and it seems to be very time consuming for no results.