How Klickitat County, Washington, Conducts Tax Sales – A Step-by-Step Guide

Klickitat County, Washington, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When property owners don’t pay their taxes, the county auctions off the properties to collect the owed amount. These sales take place online, making it easy for buyers to participate from anywhere.

If you’re interested in buying a property at a tax sale, here’s everything you need to know.

How the Auction Works

Klickitat County runs its tax sales through an online auction platform. Before bidding, you must:

• Register on the auction website before the sale begins.

• Review the property list – It includes parcel numbers, descriptions, and minimum bids.

• Pay a required deposit (if applicable) to participate in bidding.

• Bid against others – The highest bidder wins the property.

• Complete the purchase – If you win but fail to pay, you lose your deposit, and the property goes back to auction.

Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions.

Preparing for the Auction

Tax sales come with risks, so research is key. Klickitat County sells properties as-is, meaning you get no guarantees about condition, title status, or usability.

What to Check Before Bidding

1. Property details – Review legal descriptions, lot sizes, and minimum bids.
2. Location and access – Confirm property boundaries and road access.
3. Outstanding liens – Some properties may have unpaid debts beyond taxes.
4. Occupancy status – If occupied, you may need to handle eviction.
5. Land use restrictions – Check zoning laws and permitted property uses.
6. Contact the county treasurer’s office and check public records for any red flags before bidding.

Payment and Deadlines

Winning bidders must pay the full amount within the county’s deadline. Klickitat County only accepts electronic funds transfers (EFT) for payments.

Important Payment Rules

• Submit payment on time – No grace periods or extensions.

• Verify payment receipt – Ensure the county confirms your payment before the deadline.

• Plan for additional costs – Recording fees and other charges may apply.

• Late payments result in deposit loss, and the property will be relisted.

Getting the Deed

After receiving full payment, the county issues a tax deed within 30 days.

What You Need to Know About the Deed

1. The deed transfers ownership, but it does not clear existing liens.
2. You must record the deed with the county to establish ownership officially.
3. Check for legal claims – Previous owners or creditors may challenge the sale.
4. Confirm property access – Ensure roads and utilities are available for use.
5. Consider hiring a real estate attorney or getting title insurance to protect your investment.

What Happens After You Win

Once you receive the deed, you take full responsibility for the property.

Next Steps as the New Owner

• Secure the property – Protect it from trespassers or damage.

• Handle occupancy issues – If tenants remain, follow legal eviction procedures.

• Decide on future use – Renovate, sell, rent, or hold the property as an investment.

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! 

Don’t Miss Out on the Next Tax Sale

Tax sales offer great investment opportunities, but preparation is essential.

Check the auction calendar now to stay ahead of the competition. If you need help understanding the process, book a call with us. You can also explore free resources to find answers and tips for smart investment decisions.

Start preparing now and take advantage of upcoming tax sales.

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