Unlikely to find that by calling random phone numbers, so buy some folks some beers at the REIA meetup and ask for a referral. 

As always, seek professional advice.

If you or your spouse qualify as a 'real estate professional' and meet material participation regarding the property, the tax losses become non-passive and can offset other taxable income.Good convo to have with your tax CPA/EA who can consider your facts, circumstances, and goals.

I called 8 of them today and NOT one answered the phone and more glaringly one of them the number did not work.Just a gentle suggestion for those starting out at least and or until you have enough deal flow.. but I highly recommend you answer live.and of course double check that your phone is working.. 

taxes are sooo confusing as there seems to be many opinions out there, even among the professionals. 

Tenants sit on their phone and hit “inquire about this property” 100 times in a day, then never read the info we e-mail them and almost never answer our calls.  

@JD MartinThe guy had no phone at home and no cell, believe it or not.

Assuming me and the potential seller reach an agreement on price over the phone or by email, what type of document or form would I need to make the agreed upon price official?

You might be able to drive for dollars and work the phones enough to turn up a few deals, but if you need substantial volume to generate startup cash, you're probably going to have to pay for direct mail or other marketing techniques.

Is it a good idea or an unreasonable ask in my offer to have a contingency stating I'd like to get a professional appraisal done and offer is contingent on my satisfaction with the findings?