My husband bid on an auction.com... and wasn't willing to meet reserve - yes, he was bidding against himself via the auto counter bid @Josh Anders mentioned. 

Regarding "tax sale flipping," I think the mechanics of what you are describing would work, but I don't understand why an investor would buy the tax deed from you at a markup instead of buying it directly at the auction.  

As an investor, I take care with my flips to have all the majors covered (foundation/roof/mechanicals).

I'm interested in real estate investment brokerage (day job), real estate investing (night/weekend job), family, friends, and Formula 1 auto racing.Though I'm only now a member, I've been familiar and lurking with BP for years.

More often than not mechanics break down as a result of the house being foreclosed and not utilized for an extended period of time. 

Sounds like they have partnered with 1 provider to try and expand their offerings, but these company owned brokerages are typically run by employees who have no vested interest in winning your business.Probably time to find a good independent agent to handle the rentals, AND you'd be able to leave the home and auto with USAA.Good luck

Hey Amy, check out MAG Mechanical, and talk to Tom.  

Should I worry about a potential mechanical Lein on the property?

Michael,  I used to work deals in Covina, CA for a large auto franchise brand.  

If you look at this first property as a buy-and-hold, you will have cash advanced on the line of credit that won’t be completely paid back to $0 and you will have your own cash in the property for improvements that you won’t get back out until you sell the property.2.)I’m going to throw out some possible terms, though I want you to know that everything is subject to final credit approval.Option 1) If you are wanting a line of credit secured with the autos, we will need to establish a financial covenant something to the effect of the line will need to rest at $0 for at a minimum of 10 consecutive days.