Access to Sheriff Sales Before Bidding?

[Moe Rehman]

Hello, 

Sorry for the inconvenience, but I had a few questions regarding properties that are auctioned. 

I understand the thoroughness that is required when researching the title for these properties and the overall price. I would like to attend a few auctions to see how the process works and just learn more overall before starting to bid on properties?

I did a quick search online on "Fairfax county county foreclosure auction" and was able to sign up for the potential bidders list for real estate public auctions. However, does this include the sheriff sales as well? What is the difference?

How do you access the properties that will be auctioned at the court house in Northern Virignia/ Prince William County prior to the actual auction? I found an online link that shows all of the properties in "Foreclosure", "Pre-foreclosure", "Short Sale", "Sheriff Sale". However, it cost $99 a year. How do I know this is correct or that I"m not just paying for a random service? 

How often are these sales done? Is it once a week or once a month? Also, how do you get a pre-list of all the properties that will be sold at that auction? Any advice would be greatly appreicated? 

I greatly appreciate any feedback just trying to learn much as I can. 

Thanks.