Approximately, a year ago I received an e-mail asking me to fund the rehab of a small house.

when i am speaking with someone over the phone i make a ballpark offer to them so i can see what we are working so i know if it is worth pursuing to check out the house and then i would crunch the numbers to make a real offer.whenever i make that ballpark offer, i am never even close to what they are asking. right now i send direct mail to absentee owners and am having no luck on the second mailing so far. 

We are still actively looking, but have to constantly remind ourselves that just because everybody else is willing to pay too much, it doesn't mean that we have to.  

I bought it with a power of attorney express mailed to me from the other side of the planet, and my husband came home to a new house that he had only seen on Skype.

We have been doing direct mail for a few rounds now.

the best area to spend your dollars is through direct mail to absentee owners.

Send postcards (use the USPS's Every Door Direct Mail). 

Its best to ask her when is the best day/time, and then mail her a notice or post it on her door that you will be entering and taking pictures for prospective tenants.Like @Max Tanenbaum said screen screen screen.  

If Im wrong, Im sure someone will chime in.I'd say 99% of the properties that are 'wholesaled' are found through direct mail campaigns , or by word of mouth.  

Make copies , and submit to the HOA  both by certified mail and at a HOA meeting in front of everyone in attendance .