Understanding Manatee County, Florida Tax Sales

Manatee County, Florida, conducts tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes and return properties to the tax rolls. Managed by the Tax Collector’s Office and the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, these sales involve two primary methods: tax certificate sales and tax deed sales. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:

Tax Certificate Sales

Annual Auction:

The Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office holds an annual tax certificate sale, typically in May or June. During this online auction, investors bid on tax certificates for properties with delinquent taxes. The winning bidder pays the owed taxes, obtaining a lien on the property.

Interest Rates:

Bidding begins at an 18% interest rate and decreases as bidders compete by accepting lower rates. The certificate is awarded to the bidder willing to accept the lowest interest rate.

Redemption Period:

Property owners have up to two years from April 1 of the year the tax certificate was issued to redeem the certificate by paying the delinquent taxes plus interest. If not redeemed, the certificate holder may apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property.

Tax Deed Sales

Application Process:

After holding a tax certificate for at least two years, and if the property owner has not redeemed it, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed. This requires paying off all outstanding tax certificates, delinquent taxes, current taxes, and application fees. You can go and check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

Public Auction:

Once the application is processed, the property is scheduled for a public auction conducted by the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller.

Opening Bid:

The opening bid includes all clerk of court fees, the amount paid by the certificate holder to apply for the tax deed, the amount required to redeem the tax certificate, and, for homestead properties, one-half of the assessed value.

Important Considerations

Due Diligence: Buyers must conduct thorough research on properties before participating in tax deed sales. Property Information Reports detailing ownership and encumbrances are available online for review.

Payment Requirements: Winning bidders must provide a deposit before the sale and complete the payment process promptly after the auction. Specific payment details and deadlines are outlined in the auction announcements.

As-Is Sale: Properties sell “as-is,” without warranties regarding their condition, title, or location. Buyers take full responsibility for resolving any property-related issues after the purchase.

Steps to Participate

Prepare:

Review the list of available properties and perform due diligence.

Familiarize yourself with the auction rules and payment requirements.

Participate in Tax Certificate Sales:

Register for the online auction and place bids to purchase tax certificates.

Apply for a Tax Deed:

Hold a tax certificate that remains unredeemed for two years? Apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property.

Bid in Tax Deed Sales:

Participate in the public auction to bid on tax-deeded properties.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Comprehensive Guide to Florida’s Deed Auction Process and Key Requirements
• Discover the intriguing world of Hybrid Auctions
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Want to get started with Tax Liens? Watch this video!
• Explore the lucrative world of Florida Tax Liens and Deeds.

Manatee County’s tax sale process provides investors with an opportunity to earn interest or acquire properties at competitive rates while assisting the county in recovering unpaid taxes. However, understanding the process, risks, and responsibilities is essential for success. Whether you are a seasoned investor or a first-time participant, thorough preparation and due diligence are key. 

Need Assistance?

To help you get started, we offer a FREE Tax Lien & Deed Mini Course. You can also proceed and book a call with us for a customized investing plan. Check out our Auction calendar for upcoming auctions

 

Sign up or log in to view the full content.