Smith County, Texas, Tax Sales

Smith County, Texas, conducts tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. Buyers can participate through an organized and transparent process. Below is a detailed explanation of how these sales take place.

Schedule of Sales

Tax sales in Smith County happen on the first Tuesday of every month. Auctions begin at 10:00 a.m. The entire process occurs online, allowing participants to bid remotely. Visit the county’s website for the latest schedules and updates. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Notification and Public Notices

Smith County publishes public notices before each tax sale. These notices provide essential details to help participants prepare. Notices appear in the Tyler Morning Telegraph at least three times in the two weeks leading up to the sale. The courthouse displays these notices for easy public access. Details include the auction date, time, property descriptions, and minimum bid amounts.

Registration Requirements

Participants must register online before they can bid in the auction. Follow these steps to complete registration:

• Register at least five business days before the auction begins.

• Obtain a Bidder Certificate from the Smith County Tax Office. Ensure all taxes owed in Smith County are paid to receive this certificate.

• Submit the Bidder Certificate, which remains valid for 90 days, during the registration process.

• Provide valid identification and confirm the accuracy of all registration details.

Preparing for the Auction

Successful participation requires proper preparation. Here are the steps to get ready:

1. Review the property listings and auction information available online.
2. Research each property’s location, market value, and condition.
3. Verify if the property has liens, encumbrances, or other legal complications.
4. Consult with a real estate or legal expert to understand any risks involved.
5. Familiarize yourself with the auction platform by using its training resources if needed.

Auction Day Process

The online auction allows registered participants to bid from their devices. Here is how the process works:

• Bidding starts at the minimum amount required to cover taxes, penalties, and fees.

• Participants compete by submitting bids until the highest offer wins.

• Make payment by 4:00 p.m. Central Time on the day of the auction. Use cashier’s checks or money orders. Credit cards are not accepted.

Post-Auction Responsibilities

After purchasing a property, buyers must complete several steps to finalize ownership:

1. Obtain the sheriff’s deed as proof of ownership.
2. Record the deed with the Smith County Clerk’s office to formalize the transfer.
3. Resolve any outstanding title issues, including liens or encumbrances.
4. Pay future property taxes promptly to maintain ownership and avoid penalties.
5. Buyers take full responsibility for the property’s condition and any associated liabilities.

Redemption Period

Texas law allows former property owners to reclaim their property within a specified timeframe. Here are the details:

• Homestead and agricultural properties have a redemption period of two years.

• Other properties have a 180-day redemption period.

• To redeem the property, owners must pay the purchase price, recording fees, any taxes covered by the buyer, and a redemption premium of 25% in the first year or 50% in the second year.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• How to Profit from Texas’s Redeemable Deeds
• Let’s talk about redeemable tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Learn How to maximize profits at the Texas Tax Sales

Take the Next Step

Check out our Auction Calendar for Upcoming Auctions. If you have questions or need guidance, book a consultation with a tax sale expert who can assist you through every step. Explore our free resources to make informed investment decisions and achieve your property goals today!

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