Land is still doable at tax auctions but 99% of what goes to auction are drainage ditches, floodplain, cliffs or landlocked with no usable easement.Take a look at the mortgage foreclosure auctions instead as these usually only have 90 day hold periods and no redemption rights. 

On the surface, this seems too complicated but perhaps I need more details.   

Issues with surveying-setbacks, easements, water and sewer mains and alignment, elevation and drainage come into play and are usually not considerations in rehabs or additions.

Now, I wouldn't expect deals to be available all the time, however, do these type of properties usually only surface every now and then and then get taken up very quickly.

Sure, that makes sense on the surface, but you're forgetting 2 important things. 1.

Nick,On the surface looks good.

I find the following:Occupied unit needs roof leak repairs on the ceiling and the roof(approx 16sq ft)Occupied unit Surface mold remediated in the bathroom (approx 4sq ft)All 3 units need bedroom carpets replacedAll 3 units have the possibility of lead paint being used(haven't received disclosures yet)All 3 units need cosmetic repairs in bathrooms and kitchensExterior needs new paintTree hanging over roof, needs to be trimmedPossibility of rats as told to me by occupantsCabinets, floor laminate, electrical, plumbing, doors, windows are in good shape.The RE environment here is pretty competitive, the quicker I decide the less risk there will be of losing this property.  

It looks like you've touched every surface on the property.  

On the surface, this property looks attractive:Sounthern California multi-family house, 6 beds, 3 baths, 1,800+ sq. ft., about $60k est. bid.Besides monthly rental income (if any), what other information do I need from the owner of this property before I'm able to decide if this is a deal or no deal?

The neighborhoods may look run down and scary on the surface but a crime check website will show you that most those areas are not that bad.