Tax lien sale-Seller ready to walk away

[Eddie Kay]

I talked to a seller who is ready to walk away if I can just take care of the taxes owed on the property. When I called their county Tax assessor's office to find out how much is owed. They told me even if I pay the tax owed I won't get the deed because it's scheduled to be auctioned in February. I was under the impression the tax lien comes off once the dues are paid and the house does  not go to auction.

I'm beginning to think someone is "eyeing" this property so  they could possibly get it dead cheap when it's auctioned. How would you guys go about this? Any suggestions? Thanks