You buy a "tax lien certificate." You don't own the house yet; you own the debt. You earn interest on that debt, and if the owner never pays you back, you can eventually foreclose to take the property. 2. The Step-by-Step Process
If they don't pay by the deadline, you finally get the deed. 💡 Key Risks to Watch
Visit the property (though you often can't go inside) and check for other liens like mortgages or utility bills that might not be wiped out. how to buy tax sale properties
Most auctions require you to register in advance and may ask for a deposit (e.g., 10%–15% of the property value).
If you win, you must usually pay the full balance very quickly—often within 48 to 72 hours. 3. The "Redemption Period" Catch You buy a "tax lien certificate
Contact your county treasurer or tax collector's office for the "delinquent tax list".
Buying a tax sale property is a "high-risk, high-reward" investment where a government body auctions off real estate because the owner has failed to pay property taxes. 1. Know the Two Main Types The Step-by-Step Process If they don't pay by
The rules vary by county, but the standard flow usually looks like this: