Property transfer data is a matter of public record. Employees there are eager and helpful to show you how to get the data. Some counties even offer access via the web. With just a few minutes of instruction you can be researching transfer records as quickly as a trained title abstractor. Don't hesitate to make an offer.
Paper is cheap.
Working with an experienced buyers' agent Realtor will give you the confidence you need to make offers on property you like. It never hurts to make a beginning offer that seems reasonable. The worst that can happen is the seller will say no. From there you may find there is more flexibility in price or terms than you thought possible. Cash is King.