interested in tax sale auction at sheriff sale

[Will Kirkendoll]

Hello bp. I have a question regarding tax sales. I've never been to a sheriff sale before but I was browsing my local county sheriff site and a property caught my eye. The home owner died in 2010 and he owes 18,000 in taxes. The comps in the neighborhood range between 70-85k. I checked the county recorder and seen two mortgage entries. I dont know if they are liens or what. The most recent one was filed in 2004 and that company has since went out of business.  My question is really what can go wrong if i purchase this property? If there is a mortgage will the bank be able to take it over when I purchase it from the county and forfeit my money?  I seen he had an ex wife will she be entitled to it? My main concern is being out 18k...  any suggestions?  What else should I be looking for? Thanks in advance my fellow pocketers