Ultimate Guide to Yakima County Tax Deed Sales: Buy Land in Washington Online

If you’re thinking about investing in tax deed properties in Washington State, Yakima County is a solid place to start. Each year, the county holds a public auction where you can buy properties with unpaid taxes. But it’s not as simple as showing up and bidding—you need to be prepared.

Let’s walk through what you need to know, especially if you’re new to tax deed investing.

A Quick Look at Tax Deed Investing in Washington State

Washington is a tax deed state. This means that when someone doesn’t pay their property taxes for a certain number of years, the county can foreclose on the property and sell it at a public auction. As a buyer, you’re purchasing the full rights to the property—not just a lien.

The big benefit? You can get full ownership at a price often much lower than market value. But it comes with risks, so research is key.

Important Details About Yakima County Tax Deed Sales

Here’s a simple table breaking down the basics of Yakima County’s tax deed auctions:

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed
Auction Date	Typically held in February
Redemption Period	None (since it’s a tax deed sale)
Interest Rate	Not applicable
Bid Method	Premium bid (highest bid wins)
Deposit Required	$1,000 deposit + $35 processing fee
Auction Format	Online through Bid4Assets
Treasurer Contact	Yakima County Treasurer’s Office
County Website	Yakima County Official Site
Foreclosure Info Page	Foreclosure & Distraint Info

What Makes Yakima County Tax Sales Stand Out?

In Yakima County, properties are foreclosed after three years of unpaid taxes. The process begins with a Certificate of Delinquency, and once it goes to court, the only way to stop it is to pay the full amount owed. No payment plans or partial payments are accepted at that stage.

The public auction is held online in February on Bid4Assets. You’ll need to register, pay a deposit, and be ready to do your research. The county does not offer any warranties or guarantees—you buy the property as-is.

Fun Facts About Washington State

• Washington has no state income tax, which is a big plus for investors.
• The state’s population is over 7.9 million, with Yakima County home to about 260,000 residents.
• Property taxes fund schools, roads, and public safety, and the system has been in place since the 1800s.
• Yakima is known for its agriculture, especially apples and hops, and contributes significantly to the state’s farming output.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions
Yakima offers scenic parks, local theaters, and historical landmarks. It’s also close to Mt. Rainier and several national forests, perfect for nature lovers.

Transportation
You’ll find highways, public buses, and a small airport in the area. The road system makes it easy to reach Seattle or Spokane within a few hours.

Economic Growth
The region thrives on agriculture, but there’s also development in healthcare, food processing, and small-scale manufacturing.

Community Life
Outdoor activities, farmer’s markets, and local festivals give Yakima a friendly, small-town feel. It’s a great place for people who enjoy wide open spaces and a slower pace.

Why Washington Is a Great State for Tax Deed Investors

Washington’s stable economy, growing population, and fair tax system make it a strong choice for property investors. You won’t have to worry about a redemption period since the state uses tax deed sales, which means you get full ownership faster.

Understanding the Yakima County Tax Sale Process

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Taxes go unpaid for three years
2. The county files a Certificate of Delinquency
3. The property heads to public auction
4. You register on Bid4Assets
5. Pay the $1,000 deposit and $35 fee
6. Review property lists ahead of time
7. Bid online—highest bid wins
8. Pay in full by the deadline
9. The county issues a Treasurer’s Deed

Expected Returns on Yakima County Tax Deeds

Since you’re buying real estate, not a lien, your returns depend on what you do with the property. Whether you hold it, rent it, or resell it, the potential gains can be strong. But it’s important to know what you’re buying.

What About Foreign Investors?

Yes, international buyers are welcome. As long as you meet the bidding requirements and complete registration, you can participate from anywhere.

Don’t Skip the Research (Due Diligence)

Due diligence means:

• Checking if the property has other liens
• Visiting the location, if possible
• Confirming zoning rules and land use
• Reading the auction terms carefully

Skipping this step is risky. Some properties may have major issues, like environmental concerns or legal restrictions.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, it might be available over the counter. These are usually listed later on the county website.

Benefits include:

• No bidding wars
• Fixed pricing
• Immediate availability

Why Washington Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

• No income tax
• Strong agricultural economy
• Affordable property prices in rural areas
• Opportunity to own real estate outright

Conclusion

Yakima County is a great spot for anyone looking to invest in tax deed properties. With the right research and preparation, you can find valuable properties at a fraction of their worth. Just remember—do your homework, understand the risks, and be ready before the auction date.

Pro Tips

• Always check property details ahead of the auction
• Have your funds ready—payment deadlines are strict
• Use online maps to verify property access and location
• Don’t assume a winning bid means you’re ready to build—check zoning and permits first

FAQs

Q: Is there a redemption period in Yakima County?
No, Washington is a tax deed state. Once sold, the property changes hands without a redemption period.

Q: Can I finance the property or use a credit card?
No, payment is due in full and must be made through approved methods like a wire transfer.

Q: What happens if no one bids on a property?
It may be re-listed in the future or held by the county for another sale.

Q: Are these auctions open to international investors?
Yes, as long as you register and pay the deposit, you can bid from outside the U.S.

Useful Links

• Yakima County Treasurer’s Office
• Auction Site – Bid4Assets
• Yakima County Foreclosure Info
• Investing in Washington Tax Sales
• Let’s talk about Tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 

Check Out Our Auction Calendar

Don’t miss out on the upcoming tax sale! Check out our calendar for upcoming auctions to stay updated. If you need more guidance about participating in tax sales, book a call now to connect with an expert who can guide you through the process.

Looking for additional help? Explore our free resources for answers to common questions and tips to make informed investment decisions

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded