Making off market offers

[Kris Easters]

There is a property I drive by often that has been vacant for years. I recently looked up the owner through tax records and was thinking about sending them a letter asking if they would be willing to sell. Is this a good idea or bad idea, and if a good idea how should I go about wording the letter? Thanks! -Kris

[Rebecca G.]

I send letters like that all the time. I simply say, I am interested in buying your property located at 123 happy lane. Please give me a call.
Sometimes they call and tell me to go to hell but more often than not I get the property.