I ran a preliminary title search, & found that the property has a State of AL tax lien for about $600, if redeemed before 09/30/19.

Since you are responsible for all liens when buying the property before auction) Sometimes the Seller will tell you of other liens, sometimes they won't even know, I personally always order a preliminary Title Report..

We ran preliminary title check on the 4 properties (no charge as we used a contact). 

I'm frustrated and shocked at the process at the same time.

I was shocked at just how friendly and encouraging everyone was and how freely they shared valuable information.

I stopped doing it though and mostly just add to my portfolio now as lately I have been wanting to keep the property for myself :)Houston is a great market, keep in mind that property taxes can be quite high though and might be a bit of a shock - anywhere from 2.2-3% of the assessed value.My advice would be pick one of either Dallas OR Houston and then get busy.

Its funny when your 4 year old compares the consistency of things to drywall mud, or that she is alarmed by wires because she knows they can shock you (no, we don't leave hot wires out for our kids to get into, but you get the point!).

Paint, flooring, new bathrooms and kitchens are kind of what I'm expecting to have to tackle - as well as landscaping.I have done some preliminary searches in my area for fixers in the $80k and under sales price range and right now through realtor.com I have found at least 170 properties listed.  

I was shocked when I saw the final closing disclosure showing cash to close amount as....25 bucks. 

Also, does anybody have any tips for a preliminary title search process to ensure that there are no other liens beyond the original purchase finance of the DW?