If anyone has any experience or suggestions, please jump in!

Can anyone else suggest other real estate or economic newsletters where I can get big picture news on the real estate markets and economy? 

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).

thanks everyone @Edgar DuarteI would suggest you research “return on equity”.  

He just happened to have read that book recently as well and suggested I read The Book on Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner.

Quote from @Jason Hatfield: @Jaycee Greene  they require a non refundable deposit and give 48hrs to see proof of funds I would suggest developing a relationship with an HML/PML that would give you a "guidance line" that would basically be a "pre-approval" for situations like this to present to the buyer/auction company.

I would suggest going to the find a lender tab here on bigger pockets to find a local lender who has the same products. 

I would suggest calling them and asking for their redemption process, and take DETAILED NOTES. 

I suggest you put money into the deal with labor.

@Jose Morales Is there a reasonable expectation backed by fundamentals suggesting these properties valued at $25K will appreciate?