All three credit bureaus have multiple algorithms that produce a score based off the credit profile, depending on who is paying for the score: credit card companies, auto dealers, cell phone providers, mortgage lenders, direct consumers, etc.

and what you do.What is the most time consuming task for you?

I don't know Montana, but in general it isn't unusual to get into the mortgage industry as an assistant, a processor, an opener, a TC, etc, all positions that in general do not need licenses because in general these positions don't involve talking loan rates/terms with consumers. 

I'd first pay off consumer debts, then higher rate or higher risk RE debt if any.  

@Tim Johnson  ---   The overwhelming response from regulators, consumer protection agencies, etc... is harmful to unwitting consumers.    

@Andrew LarsonAs a general rule, banks make consumer loans to individuals.  

You can skiptrace, use Intelius to draw out a family tree and contact their family members (time consuming but worth it if the house has been sitting), ask neighbors for their contact information, post a sign on the property "I WILL BUY YOU HOME" or any other way to contact to the homeowner. 

Much of the BP debate on cash flow vs appreciation assumes two falsehoods (1) cash flow gets consumed by management challenges and cap ex over the long haul and (2) appreciation is speculative.  

Lets see... apparently in Europe occupancy rate was 68.8%, Asia 68.6%, US 64.5, Middle East & Africa 63.3% in 2014 ... seeing any commonalities with global consumer behavior Jo?

If you can afford it use their professional data solutions rather than their consumer site though.