How Yakima County, Washington Conducts Tax Sales: A Complete Guide

Yakima County, Washington, hosts annual tax foreclosure auctions to recover unpaid property taxes. These auctions not only help the county collect overdue taxes but also give property owners time to settle their debts before losing their properties. Here’s how the process works and what you need to know as a property owner or potential buyer.

What Happens When Property Taxes Are Unpaid

Property taxes must be paid on time to avoid penalties or foreclosure. Here’s how Yakima County handles unpaid taxes:

• Three-Year Grace Period:
  
  If taxes go unpaid for three years, the county starts the foreclosure process. For example, 2021 taxes must be paid by January 2024.

• Notices and Warnings:
  
  The Treasurer’s Office sends multiple notices to property owners, urging them to pay their overdue taxes.

• Interest and Penalties:
  
  Unpaid taxes accumulate interest and penalties over time, increasing the total amount owed.

Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

The Foreclosure Process

The foreclosure process officially begins when the county takes legal action:

• Certificate of Delinquency:
  
  The Treasurer’s Office files this certificate with the Superior Court to start foreclosure proceedings.

• Full Payment Required:
  
  To stop foreclosure, property owners must pay all taxes, penalties, interest, and fees in full. Partial payments or payment plans aren’t accepted at this stage.

• Auction Eligibility:
  
  If the debt remains unpaid, the property is prepared for the annual auction.

Preparing for the Auction

Yakima County’s tax foreclosure auctions typically happen in December, offering a chance to purchase properties at competitive prices. Here’s what buyers need to know:

1. Auction Platform:
   
   The auction is held online via Bid4Assets, making participation convenient.
2. Property Listings:
   
   The county releases a list of properties weeks before the auction. These listings include: Parcel numbers Property addresses Starting bids
3. Registration Requirements:
   
   Buyers must register on Bid4Assets, pay a $1,000 refundable deposit, and a $35 non-refundable processing fee.
4. Transparency:
   
   Clear auction terms, rules, and payment details are shared to ensure everyone understands the process.

The Auction Process

Yakima County’s online auction process is straightforward:

1. Starting Bids:
   
   Bidding starts at an amount that covers all unpaid taxes, interest, penalties, and foreclosure costs.
2. Winning the Auction:
   
   The highest bidder wins the property. The auction terms outline a deadline by which you must make the payment
3. Payment Details:
   
   Payments are made electronically. A 5% buyer’s premium adds to the final bid amount.

After the Auction

Winning a property at the auction comes with important next steps:

• Transfer of Ownership: Winning bidders receive a Treasurer’s Deed, which officially transfers ownership of the property.

• No Guarantees: The deed does not guarantee the property’s condition or clear legal status. Buyers assume all risks.

• Unsold Properties: Properties that don’t sell become tax title properties. The county may offer these in future auctions or sell them privately.

What Buyers Should Know Before Bidding

Buyers should prepare thoroughly before bidding on a property:

1. Do Your Homework: Research the property’s legal status, liens, physical condition, and usability.
2. Understand Risks: The County sell the properties “as is,” and all sales are final.
3. Follow the rules: Know the auction rules, deadlines, and payment requirements to avoid complications.

Tips for Buyers: Navigating the Tax Sale Process

Here are some practical tips to make your experience smoother:

• Research Thoroughly: Look up property details and check for any hidden issues like liens or zoning restrictions.

• Review Auction Rules: Ensure you’re familiar with payment deadlines and participation terms.

• Prepare Financially: Have funds ready for the deposit, final payment, and additional buyer’s premium.

• Start Early: Register on Bid4Assets and immediately explore the released property list.

• Seek Expert Advice: If you’re unsure about the process, consult with a tax sale expert or real estate professional.

Useful Resources

• Auction Calendar
• 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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