Its purpose was to establish uniform and fair procedures to operate the districts.

Matt,As a property manager myself, if I were in your shoes I would begin focusing on developing processes and procedures (written).  

Based on the information provided, it sounds like the property manager went through their checklist and followed standard procedures.  

If they do not follow that procedure, then they are in violation of the lease.

Could someone explain the procedure when buying a house/property, right from the offer to closing what needs to be done who is in on it, Lawyer, Banker,Agent etc?

I still have to get an appraisal and inspection but that's standard procedure.

They can work with you and receive cash for keys if they move out by x date, otherwise you'll have to follow legal procedure and will start eviction the first day you take ownership.Whether you get the property in broom swept condition is in my opinion a small concern.One of the reasons the owner is selling is probably because they don't want to handle the eviction, your role as an investor is to take on the challenge and make it easy for the seller.

What is the procedure for courthouse property auctions In Atlanta or in general?

the procedures for subs filing liens, notices, ways to protect will be state specific.

@Curt Davis   being in the timber business for many years flying timber stands was standard procedure and the only way to effectively cover lots of ground..