The county government, not an individual taxpayer, holds the lien. Paying off someone else's tax debt does not transfer this lien to you. Tennessee does have a process where the county can auction off properties with sufficiently delinquent taxes, which is one way to acquire ownership.
In Maryland, if you are behind at least $250 on property taxes, those taxes become a lien on your property. A lien is a debt that is attached to your property, like a mortgage. In Baltimore City you must be behind at least $750 to face tax sale.
Taxes on real and personal property are barred, discharged and uncollectible after the lapse of 10 years from April 1 of the year following the year in which such taxes become delinquent, unless the property is sold at a tax sale during this period.
Start by identifying properties that have accrued delinquent taxes. These can typically be found through county tax assessor websites or specific online platforms that list properties under tax lien or deed sale.