In that month, I had begun building a team with some friends and associates - lumberyard chain owner, general contractor, real estate agent, and loan official (still seeking out attorney and tax consultant/accountant.) 

Learn how to chain or abstract title at the county recorder's office.Upon suspecting or anecdotal info about institutionalized, incarcerated or deceased owner, use your investigative skills.If deceased, look at death certificate for next of kin.

Turns out there was an open C-file with title, meaning they were daisy chaining this deal to another buyer.

Lots of local restaurants and activities in downtown Woodstock (no chains).

I'm currently working as a financial analyst for a restaurant chain and have been enjoying the opportunities I've had to learn more about the industry; but, more so about financial modelling. 

I've done deals in my early days with title insurance that had liens that required my to write checks many times the value of an owners policy.My point is that title insurance does you no good after money has changed hands and you've got title with issues and then think to buy it after the fact.Personally, I suggest you'd get good value by learning how to chain title first so you'll appreciate it's benefit(s).

Historically, by chain of title, I thought that the COSL instance of the property should be real owner but the "other" owners were actually living on the property. 

Also if you need more options you could stop by your local building supply store, not a major chain store just a local small business, and find out who is their favorite contractors they are usually happy to recommend the people who do a lot of business with them.

Talk to anyone around you when you're standing in line at the store, having a meal out somewhere, ... just strike up a chat.Ask folks what they do - they'll likely ask you the same.

So my take is.If there is lots of activity on the current title before the sale (ie. quit claim deeds, note transfers, name changes, people being added onto or falling off the deed) then YES, get it.If however, the title search reveals a clean clear cut chain, then NO, it's very IMPROBABLE that someone is going to come knocking on your door during the 3-6-9 months you own it.My 2 cents...Rodney