Proof of Funds (PoF), Conditional Loan Agreements (CLA), Letter of Intent (LOI) are all attempts to show that some kind of financing has been investigated and is feasible, that's all. 

If after appropriate investigation, it appears to such officer that the proceeds from the sale of the property would be insufficient to wholly or partly satisfy the lien of the United States, or that the claim of the United States has been satisfied or by lapse of time or otherwise has become unenforceable, such officer may issue a certificate releasing the property from such lien"Locate the "officer charged with the administration of the laws in respect of which the lien of the United States arises" from the lien (a sample is provided here for the property I was researching - Assistant US Attorney Erin Secord) and contact him/her in advance to find out what information they would require from you if you win the bid.

But “’[b]y the time someone does their investigation, their work, and their job, it will be over 30 days and this man will still be in my home,’ Andaloro said.”

While I certainly haven't spent any time investigating this thoroughly, just off the top of my head, have you considered seeing if you could get the lots re-zoned?

So, determining clear title isn't a DIY project in most cases although a savy investor can investigate a lot themselves.

But between Tims Ford on one end, Nissan in the middle and Sewanee on the other end, maybe I should investigate even more deeply. 

Let them file what they will, and if there is an investigation at all, (doubtful IMHO) the authorities will request whatever information that's needed.  

Analyze market circumstances, project remodeling costs, weigh risks and rewards, and do extensive due investigation on possible investment properties.

Having a safety net for unforeseen expenses is crucial.Failure to Exercise Due Diligence: Investigate possible investment properties thoroughly, especially through title searches, property inspections, financial analyses, and rental market studies.

For qualifying veterans, investigate your financing choices such as VA, FHA, or conventional loans.