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
Most auctions require you to register in advance and may ask for a deposit (e.g., 10%–15% of the property value). how to buy tax sale properties
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. You buy a "tax lien certificate
The government seizes the property and sells it outright to the highest bidder. You are bidding for full ownership. The Step-by-Step Process Most auctions require you to