New to Tax Liens... What state and county should I start with?

[Nicole H.]

Hi BiggerPockets.  I would like to start investing in tax liens.  I live in NYC and learned they only sell to institutional investors.  Where is a good place for me to invest?  I've heard NJ can be complicated and very competitive.  I've heard I should pick someplace I can drive to and check out the properties.  I would be happy with having the lien redeemed.  I would also be happy obtaining the property (however, I don't yet actually have a team of contractors just yet as I don't know what area to target).  Any advice on which locations / county to research first?  I am willing to travel out of state but for my first time I think it makes sense to stay close to home (if I can).