You can usually request this from a title company or look into public records in your county’s clerk or recorder’s office.If you’re not sure how to navigate this, contacting the auction house or a real estate attorney familiar with foreclosure auctions can help ensure there aren’t surprises.

Agree Google nmls - funny on Facebook where 99% of private lending groups that are public are scam artists you get the "well license isn't required"I reply to this noting that while you are correct in some states - chances of a scammer with a nmls license are less than 1% while those without is 99% on sociale media 

There is no public database for property values.

Network in person, see if they have a publication where you can post your deals and what you are looking for, and if there is a larger annual conference for investors locally consider getting a vendor table to talk about your business and what you are looking for.

I would also look at the availability of public water and public sewer, if not at the site how far away are those services.

You accused other licensed professionals of giving "totally irresponsible and reckless advice" in a public forum.

How do you approach educating people on the realities of the business? 

Is there any form of education you could recommend?

Turbotax isn't going to educate you so unless you'd like to educate yourself and potentially make some costly pitfalls, then I'd outsource.

And if not then just go get a public adjuster.