Clallam County Tax Deed Sales: How to Buy Property Below Market Value in Washington

Looking for a place where real estate is growing steadily and investment opportunities are still affordable? Clallam County, Washington might be just what you’re looking for. If you’re new to tax deed investing or just exploring counties with solid potential, this guide will walk you through the basics of how tax foreclosure sales work in Clallam County—and why it’s worth considering.

Brief Overview of Washington State’s Tax Deed Investing

Washington is a tax deed state, which means when property owners don’t pay their property taxes for three years, the county can sell the property at a tax foreclosure auction. Buyers get full ownership through a tax deed, without a redemption period like in tax lien states.

The state offers opportunities with strong home appreciation and tight rental markets, especially in areas like Clallam County.

Important Tax Sale Details – Clallam County, WA

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Typical Sale Date	Annually in November
Redemption Period	No redemption period (deed sale)
Interest Rate	Not applicable (deed sale)
Bid Procedure	Premium bid (highest bid wins)
Deposit Required	$500 credit/debit card hold
Full Payment Method	Wire Transfer within 3 business days
Buyer Premium	5% added at checkout
Admin Fee	$330 (covers deed/recording fees)
Auction Platform	Public Surplus
Official Auction Info	Clallam County Tax Foreclosure Page
Treasurer’s Contact Page	Clallam County Treasurer
County Website	Clallam County

Fun Facts About Washington

• Washington has no state income tax, which makes it appealing to real estate investors.
• Clallam County was created in 1854 and its name comes from a Native American word meaning “strong people.”
• It sits on the Olympic Peninsula, giving access to national parks, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Olympic National Park
• Dungeness Spit Wildlife Refuge
• Historic downtown Port Angeles

Transportation Infrastructure

• U.S. Highway 101 runs through the county
• Access to ferries and the Port Angeles Airport
• Easy driving distance from Seattle via ferry and road

Economic Development

• Growing industries include timber, tourism, fishing, and healthcare
• Technology and green energy sectors are expanding

Community Appeal

• Known for hiking, kayaking, whale-watching, and other outdoor activities
• Strong sense of community with art galleries, local festivals, and farmers’ markets

Why Washington Is Great for Tax Deed Investors

Clallam County’s real estate market is going up steadily. With more people moving to areas outside big cities, demand for homes and land here is rising. This offers high returns with lower risk compared to overinflated markets elsewhere.

What Makes Washington Tax Deeds a Smart Investment?

High Returns with Low Risk

You’re buying full ownership of the property, not just a lien. If you do your research, you can buy land or homes at big discounts, especially compared to market prices.

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales

• You register on Public Surplus
• Place a $500 deposit using a card
• Auctions start at the total taxes and fees owed
• Highest bidder wins and must pay by wire transfer within 3 business days
• A 5% buyer’s premium and $330 admin fee are added

Maximum Potential Returns

Properties can sell for far less than market value. Some buyers flip them or rent them out for strong ongoing returns.

Open to All Investors

Yes—Washington auctions are open to out-of-state and international investors. You just need to follow the registration steps on the platform.

Understanding the Tax Deed Sale Process in Clallam County

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the County Tax Foreclosure Sales Page for auction dates and property listings
2. Create an account on Public Surplus
3. Submit a $500 card hold when you place your first bid
4. Watch for property details, title reports, and parcel info
5. Make your bid when the sale opens
6. If you win, pay by wire transfer within 3 business days

Expected Returns and Market Trends

• Median Home Price (2024): $492,000
• Home Value Growth: 9% increase year over year
• Vacant Land: Appreciated by 20% in the last 3 years
• Rental Market: Less than 1% of homes are available to rent

These numbers show solid long-term potential for property investors in Clallam County.

Importance of Doing Your Homework

What Due Diligence Means

Before bidding, check for:

• Title issues or liens
• Property condition (you can’t visit homes, but use maps and public records)
• Local zoning and building rules

Risks If You Skip This Step

You could end up with land you can’t build on or a house with major issues. Always read all documents posted by the Treasurer and review satellite views or property reports.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Deeds

If properties don’t sell at auction, the county may sell them later. This is called buying over-the-counter.

How to Do It

• Watch the Treasurer’s site for updates
• Contact the office about leftover parcels
• These sales may skip bidding—good for fixed deals

Benefits

• No bidding war
• Sometimes better prices
• Often available year-round

Why Washington and Clallam County Are Great Choices

Washington’s tax system, strong housing market, and high demand in rural counties make it one of the better states for tax deed investing.

Clallam County stands out because:

• Property values are growing
• There’s a tight rental market
• Investors can find vacant land with growth potential

Pro Tips

• Always check for easements, wetlands, or zoning restrictions
• Use satellite images and public records before bidding
• Don’t miss the auction window—bidding only opens for a few days
• Pay attention to wire transfer deadlines

FAQs: Clallam County Tax Deed Sales

Can anyone bid in the Clallam auction?
Yes, even international buyers can register and bid.

Do I need to live in Washington?
No, anyone can participate.

Is there a redemption period?
No, Washington does not offer a redemption period for tax deed sales.

Are there liens on these properties?
Some liens may remain. Always do a title check before bidding.

What if I change my mind after bidding?
If you win and don’t pay, you lose your deposit and may be banned from future sales.

Useful Links

• Clallam County Tax Foreclosure Sales
• Clallam County Treasurer’s Office
• Public Surplus Auction Site
• Clallam County Official Website
• 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! 

 Get Ready for the Next Auction

Explore our auction calendar to stay updated on upcoming tax sales. Don’t miss your chance to participate! If you need guidance or have questions, book a call with an expert to navigate the process with confidence. You can also access our free resources for answers and tips on making smart investment decisions.

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