Alabama Certificate of Purchase, Redemption, & Quiet Title

[Bonnie Moore]

Three years ago I purchased a tax lien certificate and recently received the certificate of Purchase from the Etowah County Probate office.  My research showed no lienholders or probate will from the previous owner.  We have posted no trespassing signs and changed the locks.  Previous owner's family members, who live nearby, have not contacted us.

So, before we invest in necessary repairs for a roof and doors, should we order a title search and contact possible heirs?  I understand that Alabama has four redemption periods and that a quiet title action is recommended. But one attorney advised sending notifications then wait one year to file, and another told me we had to wait three years from the certificate of Purchase sale to file quiet title.  Thanks!