Pre-foreclosure Buying Advice

[Jeremy Peters]

I'm hoping to acquire my first rental property in 2015.  

I did some research about upcoming foreclosures in my area near Dallas, Texas.

I found a property that is scheduled for auction at the beginning of February.  I did some research and should be quite a bit of equity assuming the house is in decent condition.  I did some research and found a mechanic's lien on the house.

I just typed up a letter and dropped it in their mailbox asking them to call me so I can buy their house before it is foreclosed and auctioned.  I was sure to keep the theme of the letter that I want to help them and can put cash in their pocket fast.

I was hoping to hear any ideas or tips about how to navigate this process.  In Texas, can a mechanic's lien foreclose on a property similar to a second mortgage?