I am living in Texas and can not physically do anything about the situation.

Is there a home inspection, can you physically see the house, or something else?

Do I have to physically go look at every house?

looking to skip trace on a vacant property any body recommend any companies in New Jersey 

I disagree with some people here; I think it's fine to not hit studs if you use the correct anchor and be mindful of the physics.

The coroner came by and picked up the body, but they didn't have any further involvement so I assume there was some kind of crime attached to your incident.  

The lender (or Judicial body if required) usually assigns the task to a third party entity known as a trustee who will put the property up for a public auction according to strict laws and regulations from the local, city, state and federal government(s).

Many counties have access to the records online, otherwise you have to physically go there.

If you do wholesale outside your market, how do you get a good estimate of the work required if you are not physically seeing the property?

It's important to note that market income can be used on purchases even the unit is not physically occupied.