Auctions and "Due Diligence"

[Laurie Chimento]

I'm curious from those of you that have done auctions...what exactly is involved in doing your "due diligence" on an auction house?  Knowing what the market value of the home is?  Having a title company check the title?  (Does this involve much cost?)  What else?  I am under the impression that under normal conditions, you do not get to walk through an auction house (at least the ones that go to the court house steps).  Love to hear your thoughts!