Invest in Georgia Real Estate the Easy Way—Lamar County Tax Sale Guide

Looking for real estate investment opportunities in Georgia? Lamar County might be just what you’re looking for. It offers a quiet rural setting with growing interest from investors. One of the best ways to enter the local market is through a tax deed sale, where you can legally purchase properties with unpaid property taxes.

Let’s walk through how tax sales work in Lamar County using easy steps and clear information.

Introduction to Georgia’s Tax Deed Investing

In Georgia, when property owners don’t pay their taxes, counties can sell the property through redeemable tax deeds. This means you can buy the property at auction, and if the owner doesn’t pay you back (plus interest) within a certain period, you can take full ownership.

The best part? You earn 20% interest if the owner redeems the property. That’s a much better return than most savings or investment accounts.

Important Tax Sale Details – Lamar County, GA

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Auction Day	First Tuesday of qualifying months
Auction Time	Between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM (Arrive by 9:00 AM)
Location	Lamar County Courthouse – 326 Thomaston Street, Barnesville, GA 30204
Redemption Period	1 year and 1 day
Interest Rate on Redemption	20%
Bid Process	Public outcry, highest bid wins
Payment Method	Full payment due within 1 hour (Cash or Certified Funds)
Registration	Day of auction, bring valid ID
Quiet Title Action	Required after redemption period to gain full ownership
More Info	Lamar County Tax Sales

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Georgia’s population is now over 11 million, and it’s one of the fastest-growing states in the Southeast.
• Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system, which offers a strong return on investment for tax sale buyers.
• The state has a long history of agriculture and land ownership, and its real estate laws are investor-friendly.
• Georgia’s property tax rates are generally lower than the national average.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

In and around Lamar County, you’ll find:

• Historic downtowns like Barnesville
• Local parks and recreation centers
• Seasonal festivals and small-town charm

Transportation

Lamar County is accessible via:

• I-75 and U.S. Highway 41
• State Route 36
• Easy access to Atlanta and Macon
• Nearby airports in Griffin and Atlanta

Economic Development

The area is supported by:

• Local colleges like Gordon State College
• Small manufacturing businesses
• Healthcare and logistics companies

Community Appeal

The area offers:

• Affordable housing
• Quiet, rural neighborhoods
• Outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing, and hunting
• A short drive to larger city job markets

Why Georgia Is a Good Choice for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns with Low Risk

Georgia’s 20% interest rate on redeemed tax deeds makes it one of the top states for this type of investment. Even if the property owner redeems the property, you make a solid return.

Easy Bidding Process

In Lamar County, it’s simple:

• Show up with your ID
• Register before the sale
• Bid in person
• Pay with cash or a certified check if you win

Maximum Potential Returns

If no one redeems the property, you may end up with full ownership. In many cases, the purchase price is far below market value.

Open to All Investors

There are no residency restrictions. Whether you’re in Georgia or overseas, you can bid on Lamar County tax deeds.

Understanding the Process

How the Auction Works

1. Arrive early to register (around 9:00 AM).
2. Bring your government-issued ID.
3. Listen for the parcel announcements.
4. Bid during the live auction.
5. Pay in full within one hour if you win.
6. Wait 1 year and 1 day for redemption.
7. If not redeemed, file a quiet title to take ownership.

Expected Returns in Georgia

• If the owner redeems the property: You get 20% interest on your full bid.
• If not redeemed: You get the property, possibly at a much lower price than market value.

Foreign Investor Participation

Lamar County allows foreign investors to participate in tax deed sales. You don’t have to be a resident or U.S. citizen. This makes it a good opportunity for global real estate investors.

Importance of Due Diligence

What to Check Before Bidding

• Visit the property if possible.
• Look into zoning, access, and utility status.
• Run a title search to check for other liens or legal issues.
• Review past tax history and neighborhood conditions.

Risks of Skipping Research

Without proper research, you might end up with:

• Landlocked lots
• Dilapidated structures
• Properties with major code violations

Always take the time to look up each parcel and read the full auction terms.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Deeds

How to Buy OTC

• Contact the Lamar County Tax Commissioner’s Office
• Request a list of unsold properties
• Purchase directly without bidding

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No competition
• Set prices
• Same 20% redemption interest
• Less pressure than live auctions

Why Lamar County, GA is Worth Considering

Economic and Tax Perks

• Low cost of living
• Proximity to Atlanta and Macon
• Supportive local government for business and property investment

Real Estate Market Overview

• Affordable homes compared to metro Atlanta
• Steady rental demand near Gordon State College
• Mixed inventory of older homes and new builds
• Long-term appeal for commuters, students, and retirees

Conclusion

Lamar County offers an easy entry into the world of tax deed investing. With Georgia’s redeemable tax deed system, high interest rates, and growing real estate market, this county stands out as a smart option.

Just remember: do your research, visit properties when possible, and understand the rules. If you’re prepared, tax sales can be a great way to grow your investment portfolio.

Pro Tips for Tax Sale Success

• Focus on lots near schools or main roads—they tend to resell well.
• Bring cashier’s checks in different amounts to pay quickly.
• Read the auction notice carefully—some counties update rules with little notice.
• Always ask questions at the courthouse before the auction begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Georgia to buy tax deeds?
No. You can live anywhere and still participate.

When do tax sales happen in Lamar County?
On the first Tuesday of eligible months. Not every month has a sale, so check the county website.

What happens after I win a property?
You pay in full, receive a Sheriff’s Deed, and wait 1 year and 1 day. Then, if the property isn’t redeemed, you can file for full ownership.

Is there a deposit to bid?
Currently, no deposit is required in Lamar County, but you must pay in full within one hour of winning.

Can I buy tax deeds online?
No, Lamar County auctions are held in person only at the courthouse.

Useful Links

• Lamar County Tax Sales Information
• Lamar County Tax Commissioner’s Office
• Lamar County Official Website
• Georgia Property Deed Records
• Georgia Tax Sale Laws
• Unlock Property Deals at a Fraction of the Cost in Georgia
• Discover the intriguing world of Hybrid Auctions
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Want to get started with Tax Liens? Watch this video!
• Learn About the 90% Off Georgia Real Estate!!

Need a Hand?

Get ahead of the curve in Lamar County by checking the Auction Calendar. Use our free resources to better understand the process, and book a call if you want to build a smart and confident plan.

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