Approaching pre-foreclosure owners?!

[Cameron Hering]

Hi everyone, 

Very excited to be here - learning as much as I can while trying to find my first deal in the Portland, Or area. I have identified a number of potential pre-foreclosure homes. They are more budget friendly in this area as I only have $150k to invest. My questions is - Is it possible to reach out to those buyers in "pre-foreclosure" and try and purchase their home from them before the home goes to auction? I've searched high and low and can't seem to find a definitive answer.

Also looking to network with those in the Portland, Or area!

Thanks so much!

Cam