Tax lien Advice

[Roderick Smith]

Hello Everyone,

My name is Rod Smith and I live in Jefferson County Birmingham, AL. I am looking to get into my first tax lien auction in May. I bought a tax lien list and there are no tax prices on it, so I was wondering if there are any free websites where I can find out how much the taxes on some of these parcels either current or previous years? This would help me to decide which parcels to research and bid on. 

Secondly, as I am a beginner I was just looking to purchase tax certificates first and play the waiting game. I would like to know which kinds are best to invest in to recoup the taxes quicker? Those that are owned by banks, and mortgage companies, or individuals. Occupied or non-occupied? 

Thirdly, I have a partner in this endeavor and he would like to know if he were to purchase state for sale deeds what are the ones to stay away from not being able to rehab or foreclose (i.e. Burned units, mortgage owned, real estate owned, total tear downs).

Thanks for your help in advance.

Best Regards,

Rod Smith

Smith Entertainment Inc