Here are a few stats which should raise an eyebrow about Detroit $1 billion invested in more than 4,600 units of affordable housing over the past five years Job growth with more than 25,000 more Detroiters employed since 2014 A return to investment grade bond status for the first time since 2009Reductions in crime beating national trends, including the fewest homicides in 57 years Successfully hosting the largest ever NFL Draft at 775,000 people over three days In terms of starting out in Real Estate it also makes sense to invest in Detroit considering that the entry costs are low and if you plan to buy and hold, Section 8 makes for a great partner to insure steady rent payments.

NONE of the money raised from the auction of a 2nd goes toward the payment of the 1st (that is why they call it "subject to the first")4.

There is no requirement to use them as mentors for doing the rehab projects as described in the horror story above, but they do their own underwriting so they will be investing themselves to assure the deal makes sense and is successful to assure they get their payments and interest. 

Explain your situation and see if there are payment plans or hardship programs available.The BiggerPockets forums have threads on tax liens and foreclosure prevention: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/41/topics/766025-surplus-funds-unpaid-taxes-in-foreclosure-saleAn experienced real estate attorney can advise you on your legal rights and explore potential solutions.Have you spoken with your local tax authority yet?

The total cost for this monthly for me is $1.00 fee for online payment for Sevier County, TN and the .73 cent stamp for Blount County, TN.

Perhaps we "buy" the house from them for the $328K balance to satisfy the lender and don't need a large down payment and then have a separate contract with them to pay $x per month until we've paid the full $172K amount.

Since it’s a new build, I was able to negotiate some great perks, like a 5.875% interest rate, no closing costs, a fridge, blinds, and even a backyard firepit.Pros:Good school districtLow interest rateMinimal CapEx and repairs (because it’s a new build)Low insuranceHigh-quality tenants (due to the school district and being a new build)Cons:Lots of new builds in the area, which could drive down prices and increase vacanciesThe Numbers:Price: $290KInterest Rate: 5.875%Down Payment: 25%Monthly Mortgage + Insurance + Taxes + HOA: $1,480 (I got really low insurance since it’s a new build and Alabama’s property taxes are low)Property Management: 10%Rent: $1,800 (this is under market because I wanted to rent it quickly—most units in the area were sitting vacant for 100+ days.

Have 3 investments in GoodEgg - 2 have stopped making payments.

I have the opportunity to help a family member be part of a joint venture with them putting the down payment down.  

The payments and interest are high.