I am an equal opportunity kind of guy, so the goal is to form win-win relationships where we both come to a fair agreement. 

I've read stories where the highest bid does not necessarily win.

The home is 1360 sqft 3/2 with a bonus room in River Oaks.

So we ended up doing a large package deal at a great price and it was a win-win.  

There's really no good win to either party not making payments.

Welcome to BP @Joshua Koo Check out the book on Investing with no or low money down here https://www.biggerpockets.com/pro/welcome, it's part of your Pro bonuses

Depending on the size of the county - many properties are posted - a lesser amount actually get to actual Auction as owner has until last minute to clear up the deficiency or some type of legal maneuver is filed to forestall the actual sale. you'll actually see some properties Pulled and a month or so later it shows up again.It's a real "crap shoot" as to what you can buy - and you have to PAY CASH that Day if you are successful in winning the bid.Sheriff's Tax Sale are another animal as well with "Right Of Redemption".  

Plus you don't have to go through a bank...seems like a win-win.

It is not easy for sure, but it is what gives you the investor edge on the market and tilts the odds dramatically in your favor ... heads you win big, and tails you win small, but the house always wins and you are the house.

I love solving problems and building win win situations for all parties involved.