How Mason County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales

Mason County, Washington, holds tax foreclosure sales for properties with unpaid taxes. These auctions give buyers a chance to purchase properties at lower prices. However, understanding the process is crucial before bidding. Here’s how tax sales work in Mason County.

How Properties End Up in a Tax Sale

Property owners must pay their taxes on time. If they miss payments for three years, the Mason County Treasurer’s Office takes action:

• Foreclosure Process Begins: The Treasurer’s Office files a Certificate of Delinquency with the Superior Court.

• Notices Sent: Property owners and other interested parties receive foreclosure notifications.

• Public Notice Published: The county posts foreclosure notices in local newspapers and online.

• Final Payment Deadline: Owners can still pay overdue taxes before the auction to remove their property from the sale.

Steps in the Auction Process

Mason County lists properties for auction on Bid4Assets, an online auction platform. Here’s how the process works:

1. Property Listing: The Treasurer’s Office publishes a list of properties scheduled for auction.
2. Registration Required: Buyers must register on Bid4Assets before placing bids.
3. Deposit Requirement: A bank wire transfer deposit is required to participate.
4. Bidding Process: The auction lasts several days, allowing registered buyers to place bids.
5. Winning the Bid: The highest bidder must pay the full amount, including any buyer’s premium, by the county’s deadline.
6. Ownership Transfer: The county issues a Tax Deed, but buyers must verify any remaining liens or encumbrances before bidding.

Want to stay updated? Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled sales.

What Happens to Unsold Properties?

If no one buys a property at auction, Mason County takes ownership and classifies it as tax-title property. The county may sell these properties later through:

• Another public auction

• Private negotiations

Interested in tax-title properties? Contact the Mason County Treasurer’s Office for details on available listings.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

Before placing a bid, consider these key factors:

1. Properties Sell As-Is: The county does not guarantee condition or title status.
2. No Refunds: All sales are final. Buyers cannot request refunds after purchasing a property.
3. Outstanding Liens May Exist: Some properties may have existing liens that the new owner must resolve.
4. Timely Payment Is Required: Winning bidders must pay on time, or the county will relist the property for auction.
5. Redemption Periods May Apply: Some properties may have redemption periods, allowing former owners to reclaim them by paying overdue taxes and fees.
6. Research Is Essential: Buyers must investigate title history, land use rules, and potential legal restrictions before bidding.

Preparing for an Auction

• Visit the Mason County Treasurer’s Website – Review auction rules and available properties.

• Investigate Property Titles – Check ownership history, unpaid liens, and any legal obligations.

• Secure Funds in Advance – Make sure you have the required deposit and full payment ready.

• Monitor the Auction Closely – Stay updated on bidding deadlines and auction updates.

• Finalize Payment Quickly – Winning bidders must complete payments on time to secure ownership.

Useful Links

• 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! 

Get Ready for the Next Auction

Explore our auction calendar for upcoming tax sales. Need help? Book a call with an expert or browse our free resources for investment tips!

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