The REO purchase process is oftentimes a long process as the banks are often dealing with large volumes of properties.

The problem with that is if I want to scale up volume.

I read your post and I can provide you with extremely large volumes (far more than you described in your post) of targeted, direct mailing lists for a mere FRACTION (not even talking 5 figure) of the cost you are describing.

It's really a volume industry.

Hey Mitch,At your level of 8 units typical fees for property management run 8 to 10 percent of collected gross rents.If you can buy 50 units or more typically you can get a 5% management fee for volume.188 miles away is not going to work to run yourself.A key when buying is what is the condition of the complex as far as structure and mechanicals??

I'd imagine things have gotten quicker since then due to the reduction in short sale volume.

Doing a lot of flip volume helps, too.If you have stretched your dollar and you still think you are spending too much, try a lighter rehab on your next couple of projects and see how you make out.

In this market, I would also consider listing the property as a FSBO (Depending on your volume and schedule).

I don't know if DFW is hot, but I don't imagine there's sales volume and price appreciation to go without appraisal, financing, and inspection contingency. 

And fair enough direct mail always needs a ton of volume.