Hawkins County, TN Tax Sales: How to Buy Properties at Auction

Hawkins County, Tennessee, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When property owners don’t pay their taxes, the county auctions off these properties to collect what’s owed. If you’re looking to invest in tax-delinquent properties, here’s what you need to know.

How Hawkins County Tax Sales Work

Hawkins County conducts in-person tax auctions at the county courthouse. Buyers can bid on properties with overdue taxes and potentially purchase them for the amount owed or more. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions

Auction Process at a Glance

1. In-Person Auctions – All sales take place at the Hawkins County Courthouse.
2. Property Listings – The county publishes a list of available properties at least 30 days before the auction in local newspapers and on the county website.
3. Starting Bids – Bidding starts at the total amount owed, including back taxes, interest, and court costs.
4. Live Bidding – The highest bidder wins, but the court must confirm the sale.

How to Participate in Hawkins County Tax Sales

1. Review Property Listings

• Find listings in local newspapers and on the county website.

• Research tax records, liens, and property conditions.

2. Attend the Auction in Person

• Arrive at the Hawkins County Courthouse on auction day.

• Bring a valid ID and any required deposit.

3. Register to Bid

• Sign up at the courthouse before the auction starts.

• The county may require a deposit to participate.

4. Start Bidding

• Compete in the live auction against other buyers.

• The highest bid must meet or exceed the minimum bid amount.

5. Pay Immediately After Winning

• Winning bidders must pay in full by the county’s deadline.

• Accepted payment methods: cash, money order, or cashier’s check.

6. Wait for Court Approval

• The Chancery Court must confirm all sales before they are final.

• This process can take several weeks.

7. Monitor the Redemption Period

• The original owner can reclaim the property by paying all overdue taxes, fees, and interest.

• If the owner redeems, the winning bidder receives a refund.

8. Receive the Tax Deed

• If the property is not redeemed, the winning bidder gets a tax deed and ownership transfers.

What Happens After Winning a Property?

1. Payment Must Be Made Quickly

• Buyers must pay in full within the county’s required timeframe.

2. The Redemption Period Still Applies

• The original owner has a set time to reclaim the property.

3. You May Not Get Immediate Possession

• Buyers must wait until the redemption period ends to take full control.

4. Legal Action May Be Required

• Some properties require a quiet title action to establish clear ownership.

5. Evictions Might Be Necessary

• If someone occupies the property, legal steps may be required for removal.

6. Title Insurance Can Be Complicated

• Many tax-sale properties need additional legal work before obtaining clear title insurance.

Key Things to Know Before Bidding

All Sales Are Final

• The county does not offer refunds or cancel sales after bids are placed.

Properties Sell ‘As-Is’

• The county does not guarantee property condition, access, or title status.

Some Properties Have Liens

• Other debts beyond unpaid taxes may still exist.

• Buyers should research title records before bidding.

Additional Costs May Apply

• Buyers may have to cover court fees, legal costs, and title clearing expenses.

Inspect Properties Before Bidding

• Verify ownership records, property conditions, and legal status before placing a bid.

Winning a Property Does Not Grant Immediate Ownership

• The redemption period must pass before buyers gain full control.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Why Tennessee Tax Sales Are a Smart Investment Choice
• Let’s talk about redeemable 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 sales and get ready to bid. Need expert advice? Book a call with us today! Plus, check out our free resources to gain the knowledge you need for confident investing

Don’t wait—start preparing today

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