After words, he came back with a bid that was about $18K more than I have budgeted.

Terry is the owner and has been the person to come and bid my jobs.

i have made a few bids but did not make a deal Many of the notes seem overpriced 

I guess it's possible to over bid knowing you are going to reduce the price either thru appraisal or inspection.

They should provide a bid for the work to be performed.

Does anyone know of any good, affordable contractors in the area I can call to get bids?  

best bet is to hire a full season lawn / snow service that can do your property year round..Seasonal rates for each  snow and for lawn care.. get some bids.. your going to find the good companies are probably already booked for snow and won't touch you unless you contract with them also for lawn care.. so make sure and mention that when you call.. have them do the fall clean up.. and get started right away.. 

Going to bid on a Xome home.

I need bids from a handyman team for exterior house painting, grass removal, and mulch and drip irrigation installation.

It is my understanding that if you win a bid on a property your money is tied up in an interest bearing account until one calendar year has passed, giving the property owner a grace period to become current on their property taxes.I realize that there are many deals to be found at these auctions, but I'm wondering if it is actually worth it.