Sheriff sale due diligence?

[Henley H.]

What types of due diligence should be conducted prior to a sheriff sale for property? It seems like a title search is necessary to ensure no liens/encumbrances. The local title company quoted $500 for one of these, or $150 for a lesser version they're calling a 'lot book'. While this seems like a necessary investment, it also adds up quickly if you're looking at many properties. For people who frequently attend these auctions, do they just absorb this as a cost of doing business or is there an alternative?