Discover How to Profit from Georgia’s Hidden Tax Sales in Putnam County

If you’re thinking about investing in tax-delinquent properties in Georgia, Putnam County is a great place to start. With its peaceful atmosphere and properties near Lake Oconee, it offers attractive options for investors looking to earn solid returns.

Let’s walk through how tax sales work here, what to expect at the auction, and why Putnam County might be the right investment spot for you.

A Quick Look at Georgia’s Tax Deed System

Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system. This means when a property is sold for unpaid taxes, the original owner has 1 year and 1 day to pay the full amount owed plus a 20% penalty. If they don’t redeem it, the buyer can then start the process to get full ownership through what’s called a quiet title action.

Important Details for Putnam County Tax Sales

Item	Details
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Sale Date	First Tuesday of the Month (if properties are available)
Redemption Period	1 Year + 1 Day
Interest Rate (Return)	20% flat in first year
Auction Method	Public outcry, highest bidder wins
Registration	In-person with valid ID, starting at 9:00 AM
Auction Start Time	Usually begins at 10:00 AM ET
Payment Due	Within 1 hour after the auction
Payment Method	Cash or cashier’s check
Location	Putnam County Courthouse, 100 S. Jefferson Ave, Eatonton, GA
Official Info	Putnam County Tax Commissioner
Sale Notices	Published in The Eatonton Messenger
Property Records	Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA)
More Details	Putnam Clerk Tax Sale Information

Why Georgia Tax Sales Are Worth Considering

Georgia is one of the few states where investors can earn a guaranteed 20% return if a property is redeemed. That’s a strong incentive with less risk than traditional real estate. And if the owner doesn’t pay within the redemption period, you can take full control of the property.

Fast Facts About Putnam County and Georgia

• Population: Around 22,000
• County Seat: Eatonton
• Main Attraction: Lake Oconee
• Fun Fact: Eatonton is the hometown of Alice Walker and Joel Chandler Harris
• Real Estate Tip: Lakefront and golf community properties are in demand

Local Highlights and Economy

Attractions

• Parks, golf courses, lakefronts, and historic sites
• Lake Oconee draws year-round visitors
• Eatonton has a charming downtown with museums and local shops

Transportation

• Easy access via US-441 and GA-16
• About 90 minutes to Atlanta
• Nearby airports support private air travel

Economic Drivers

• Tourism, real estate, and construction
• Steady interest from retirees and second-home buyers
• Local farms and small businesses keep the community strong

Community Lifestyle

• Peaceful living with lake activities
• Popular for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation
• Active vacation rental market for cabins, condos, and cottages

Why Putnam County Is a Smart Place to Invest

Putnam County offers:

• Affordable properties for new investors
• Steady appreciation near Lake Oconee
• Good options for both flipping and long-term rental income

Step-by-Step: How the Auction Works

1. Watch for the sale notice in The Eatonton Messenger or visit the Tax Commissioner’s website.
2. Show up early on the auction day—registration starts at 9:00 AM.
3. Bring a valid ID (and check if a bidder affidavit is required).
4. Auction begins at 10:00 AM on the courthouse steps.
5. Pay in full within one hour if you win—cash or cashier’s check only.
6. Wait out the redemption period (1 year + 1 day).
7. If not redeemed, you may begin a quiet title action to claim full ownership.

What to Expect with Your Return

• If the owner redeems the property, you get your full bid back plus 20% interest.
• If the property is not redeemed, you may end up owning it after filing for quiet title.
• This system creates both cash-flow opportunities and asset-building potential.

Can You Buy Over the Counter (OTC)?

Yes, if a property doesn’t sell at the auction, you can often buy it directly from the county. This is called an over-the-counter purchase.

Check availability through the Putnam County Tax Portal.

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No competition from other bidders
• Fixed price
• Still eligible for redemption interest returns

Pro Tips Before You Bid

• Do a title search—look out for liens and unpaid bills
• Know the zoning rules—some properties can’t be used for housing
• Drive by the property if possible
• Vacant homes may require major rehab
• Lake properties might come with building restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attend the auction online?
No. All auctions are in person at the courthouse.

Do I get my money back if the property is redeemed?
Yes. You’ll be paid back the full bid amount plus 20% interest.

Can foreign buyers invest?
Yes. Georgia allows both U.S. and international investors to take part in tax sales.

How do I find a list of available properties?
Check the local newspaper or the Putnam County Tax Commissioner’s site.

Do I have to pay anything at registration?
No fee is required to register, but full payment is due if you win a bid.

Useful Links

• Putnam County Tax Commissioner
• Putnam Clerk Tax Sale Information
• Putnam County Tax Payment Portal
• GSCCCA Records and Deeds
• Putnam County Official Website
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Ready to Start?

Start your investment journey in Putnam County with our Auction Calendar. Our free resources can guide your early steps, and when you need to go further, book a call to get expert advice on your strategy

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