@Anthony Russel You can accomplish what you are trying to do in a much more effective way using PROPERLY structured cash value life insurance.  

My name is Andy Taylor (don't say it) and I am a new wanna-be investor from the Houston area (Magnolia, actually, which is 40 or so miles north of Houston proper).I stumbled onto BiggerPockets.com after a late-night Half-Price Books run that saw me come home with an armload of discounted Rich Dad books while on a recent out-of-town trip.

So there was really no reasoning with him, he seriously believes he doesn't have to pay taxes.My question is is there any way I can ensure to be in the first position to buy the tax certificate so I don't lose the property?

If they don't perform, it's important to give the proper notices to avoid delaying the eviction process.

You may also follow the Florida State Statute on abandoned property and opt to post a bond with proper notices and through the courts obtain title to the car.

He is concerned that the mortgage liens were not properly notified although there is a court order to sell free from mortgage liens.

You can find them in any title search where a Refi has occurred in the chain of title.This my personal experience, and you should consult  proper legal guidance.

This is crucial in terms of proper investment property management.

Your time here will be well spent.Your profile is empty and there is no mention of a specific REI area of interest, so, I added the below links from three of the most popular niches for your selection of one or all.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/07/flipping-houses/ (step by step guide to flips) http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/courses/a-beginners-introduction-to-real-estate-investing (video courses)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/(7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

Lived in Chicago proper for 20 years and all my life nearby.