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
If you win, you must usually pay the full balance very quickly—often within 48 to 72 hours. 3. The "Redemption Period" Catch how to buy tax sale properties
The rules vary by county, but the standard flow usually looks like this:
Most auctions require you to register in advance and may ask for a deposit (e.g., 10%–15% of the property value). You buy a "tax lien certificate
Contact your county treasurer or tax collector's office for the "delinquent tax list".
Even after you "win," the original owner often has a legal right of redemption . This is a window (months to years) where they can pay back the taxes plus interest to get their house back. If they pay, you get your money back plus interest. The Step-by-Step Process If they don't pay by
You are either buying the property itself or the right to collect debt: