Haven't updated this post in a while, because I have been unable to close on the lots due to environmental issues.

Services you pay for - building inspections, appraisal, survey, environmental, etcIf the seller cannot or will not disclose requested information then you need to figure out why (they just might not have it, or there might be something they are trying to hide).

I own an environmental consulting company and do expert witness work. 

Department of Treasury with usc exceptionState Tax LienLien by USA or Dept of JusticeUS Department of StateOther Federal AgenciesCode Enforcement for debris removal or mowingDemolition or Environmental Based Liens State child support lienBoard of County Commissioners for special assessmentsUtility LiensWater/Sewer Delinquency (only in selected states)County (and/or School/Township) for unpaid taxes@Steve Babiak has also graciously compiled a list of forum posts related to courthouse auction sales below:  http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/41/topics/6897...

I think you've pretty much nailed it here- you're no doubt making a bigger deal of it than you need to, and almost everyone has an element of fear -- conscious or otherwise -- holding them back.

My background is in performing environmental due diligence for Private Equity real estate transactions, REITs and other transactions.

If you plan on investing at home, just be conscious that while much of what you read and learn here is universally applicable, there is a U.S.A. bias and things will be differences at home in the areas of finance, regulation, and taxation.

That means, you have 50% equity (pause here while I regain consciousness). 

Lots of discounts available for upgrading old properties environmentally too.

Alternatively, build in the cost of a cleaner coming to handle common area when running your numbers...helps the arguments over hair on the bathroom vanity + great marketing of amenities you offer (and makes your home clean for you if/while you're living in it on the tenants' dime).Just be conscious of the tenant base/mix, especially if you're living there.