ISO Advice: New to auctions and trying to learn!

[MC Crosby]

A property in my neighborhood came up for auction on the city’s listing. I’ve researched it online and:

— I see the liens, but unclear on how to read them properly. Two loans were taken out, but the starting bid covers only 75% of the combined loan amount. Does that mean the remaining 25% has been paid off? Or could we potentially be liable for the balance after the auction?

— How do I find out if there are additional liens (mechanic’s lien, etc.)?

— There is a referee/attorney listed, would you recommend contacting him for further info? Or is he not able to provide info outside of the auction?

— On an older thread here, some folks suggested stopping by to see if the owner might be amenable to acting as a a liaison between the bank and myself. I’m curious if this route has worked for anyone here?

Would appreciate any insights, thank you!

MC