Buying Tax Certificates on Raw Land

[Rashida Clarke]

Lately I've been interested in buying and holding raw land. I've developed an interest in FL tax certificates and then accidentally ran across some 'Foreclosure Ready' tax certificates on Ebay.  I have a good understanding of Real Estate, Planning and Zoning but this process is new to me.  I've read a few old discussions but have a few more questions.

1. Has anyone ever bid on a tax certificate or purchased a property via Ebay?

2. Have you ever purchased a certificate on raw land?

3. I don't quite understand the last part of the process. IF I purchased a tax certificate ready for Foreclosure (i.e. past the redemption period?) and I choose to foreclose.... I run the risk of NOT becoming the owner if I am outbid at auction, correct? But if no one bids or I win the bid, I would become the owner after the sale closes?