If things are not done clear and legal between you and your brother on this deal it could be the cause for a family feud. 

I think your name gave away the girl part :-)I think the BRRR strategy is seemingly appropriate.I’m personally looking at Albany.

@Gregg HenryYou could try the county clerk recorders office at 2954 Richardson Drive Auburn, CA, 95603 and run a property profile to see who's holding legal title.The address will match the assessors parcel number which will show you who's paying the tax bill...

LENDER REQUIRED REPAIRS AND TREATMENTS: Unless otherwise agreed in writing, neither party is obligated to pay for lender required repairs, which includes treatment for wood destroying insects.

I had a drywall contractor who never finished after constant delays on his part. I

Hello, the NAR referred me to legal counsel: my realtor, during my temporary occupancy agreement period, gave my buyer, not only the keys and the alarm code, but the instructions on how to disarm the alarm. 

3) Are there any legal ramifications I am not thinking of?

Risk of time and opportunity cost.I realize I'm sounding like a total party pooper today. 

3- If someone holds a lien on a property but it is not recorded in official documents, what is the legal standing of such a lien if you win the auction and the property comes in your possession?

I don't know the legalities of this, but a seller long as the seller knows what isn't happening and the deal is a good deal, me as the potential end buyer is really only concerned with the numbers.