Sale Prior To Sheriff's Sale
I was investigating a condo listed for Sheriff's Sale in two weeks. The condo has a value of approx. $325,000.00 and the newspaper showed a required balance of $173,000.00. I went to the location and found the owner who told me he had just sold the unit for $257,000.00 
It appears I missed a good oportunity. But why would he sell so low? i guess I still have a lot to learn.
Unless you are able to confirm the as-is, FMV, and see the actual sales agreement... there is no way to know if the deal was good or bad.
Don't give up hope, because many deals fall thru at the last minute. Stay in touch with the Seller.