Other than the wasted time for the 95-98% of people who aren't going to call anyway, I'd think this would do more harm than good since you'd be making inaccurate/uninformed assumptions with all your offers.

BUT recently we are getting grief from Ins Co's if there is a solid fuel fireplace???

The largest challenge will be building a solid buyers list in a new location for you.Good luck!

I think your plan is solid - I started my buy-and-hold investing with a duplex that I lived in half and rented the other half out - and still own it and love it.

I've never had anyone back out on the property but this is an excellent way to make sure that my time isn't wasted if they do.

Do the open house.Don't tell them it's an open house though.Just tell 15 of them to come at a specific time, and the other 15 can come 45 minutes later.Of those 35, only 10 will show up.But at least you won't have to waste your whole day.

If you have looked at a few every month over the next year (even though it can be frustrating if you aren't in a position to buy just yet) you will be in a much better position to make a solid offer when you are ready.

Got off the with owner of the property ( which happens to be out of town owner) place is a mess code violations grass pass my waste and roof got holes/ sunk in ( major water damage.I believe this house would have to be tore down.Anyone ever wholesaled property that would need to be tore down....

Tom Goans Solid concept!

For a fun read, you should totally check out How NOT to Flip a House: An Embarrassing Story of Wasted Time, Money, and Opportunity.