They do require a refundable $5k deposit to get on the "VIP" list and start receiving properties.  

This list is by no means exhaustive, and you're welcome to add companies I missed or add your experiences in the comments.

I have found that locally, this is where you can see other homeowners who needed the same thing done and often times they have someone who isn't big on the internet or on a list, but is reliable and cost-efficient and they appreciate the business.

$550 monthly cash flow after PITI+HOA.Our primary residence has a guest house and we have that listed on AirBnB/VRBO.

Now those same props are selling for 100k ++++  ALL areas in ALL of Cleveland have doubled tripled or much more over the last 10 years.Good luck Neighborhoodscout lists Cleveland appreciation for last 10 years as 5 out of 10 which is not bad, but not great.  

You could JV with an established wholesaler and split the assignment fee until you build up a buyers list. 

With each contact I ask them to remove me from all contact lists.  

For Redfin to show comps you may need to login to view the past solds, if no sales data just discount a few % off the listing price since some markets are going for near retail anyway.

Most listing agents for REOs will probably not take certain kinds of POF letters very seriously and you might be better off approaching owners of real estate instead.

There are lots of benefits - buying, selling commission, access to the MLS, access to better data, access to contracts and addendums, access to your broker for knowledge, the list goes on and on.