Rabun County Georgia Tax Sales: A Simple Way to Start Property Investing

If you’re exploring real estate investing in Georgia, Rabun County is a great place to start. Known for its mountain scenery and lakefront properties, this area offers tax sale opportunities that are especially appealing to new and experienced investors alike.

Here’s a straightforward guide to how tax sales work in Rabun County and what makes them a smart option.

Brief Overview of Georgia’s Tax Deed Investing

Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system. This means when you buy a property at a tax sale, you’re not the immediate owner. Instead, you hold a deed that the original owner can redeem within a specific time—one year and one day. If they don’t, you can move forward with a legal process called quiet title to claim full ownership.

These sales are open to the public and can offer high returns with a bit of planning and patience.

Important Tax Sale Details for Rabun County

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Sale Date	First Tuesday of the month (only when properties are available)
Sale Location	Rabun County Courthouse, Clayton, GA
Time	Starts at 10:00 AM (arrive by 9:00 AM to register)
Redemption Period	1 year and 1 day
Interest Rate	Minimum 20% return on the redemption amount
Bid Procedure	Public outcry auction to the highest bidder
Deposit	Full payment due within 1 hour after sale (cash or cashier’s check only)
Sheriff’s Deed	Mailed after the sale
Contact Info	Rabun County Tax Commissioner or call (706) 782-3613

Unique Features of Investing in Georgia

What makes Georgia unique is the 20% minimum return on redeemed properties, one of the highest guaranteed rates in the country. Unlike tax lien states, Georgia’s redeemable deeds give you a stronger legal standing and a quicker timeline to ownership if the property is not redeemed.

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Population: Georgia has over 11 million residents, making it the 8th most populous state.
• Property Tax History: Property taxes in Georgia help fund public schools and local governments, and tax sales happen when these go unpaid.
• State Law: Georgia law allows counties to sell tax-defaulted property through public auctions, with strict rules to protect investors and owners.
• Notable Fact: Rabun County has some of the highest elevation points in Georgia.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions
Rabun County is home to Tallulah Gorge, Black Rock Mountain State Park, and Lake Burton. These outdoor spaces attract tourists year-round.

Transportation
Accessible by U.S. Highway 441. The closest major airports are in Atlanta, GA and Asheville, NC.

Economy
Tourism, agriculture, and local businesses support the economy. There’s also growing demand for vacation rentals and second homes.

Community Life
The area offers a peaceful lifestyle with hiking, waterfalls, art galleries, and outdoor markets. It’s ideal for people wanting to invest in a slower pace of life or earn from short-term rentals.

Why Georgia Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns with Low Risk
A guaranteed 20% return if the property is redeemed makes this a solid option for investors. Compared to savings accounts or stocks, it’s much more appealing.

Open Auctions
Georgia allows anyone, including non-residents and foreign investors, to bid in tax sales.

Fixed Timeline
With a one-year-and-one-day redemption period, planning your investment is easier and more predictable.

How the Tax Deed Auction Works in Rabun County

1. Check Legal Notices: Find tax sale properties on Georgia Public Notice.
2. Register In Person: Get there by 9:00 AM with valid ID and certified funds.
3. Bid at Auction: Highest bidder wins the property.
4. Pay Quickly: You have one hour to pay using cash or cashier’s check.
5. Wait for Redemption: The owner has 1 year and 1 day to repay your investment with 20% interest.
6. File Quiet Title: If not redeemed, you’ll need to file this to get full ownership.

Expected Returns in Rabun County

If the property is redeemed, you’ll get a 20% return. If it isn’t, you might end up owning land or a home at a fraction of market value. Either way, there’s strong potential for profit.

Can Foreign Investors Join?

Yes. Georgia tax sales are open to international investors. You don’t need to live in Georgia—or even in the U.S.—to participate.

Importance of Doing Your Homework

Before bidding:

• Check the Property using online maps and records.
• Search for Existing Liens with the Georgia Clerks Authority.
• Know the Risks of unredeemed properties, such as access issues or needed repairs.

Skipping research can cost you. A little effort goes a long way toward making smart investment decisions.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Georgia

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, it may become available for direct purchase.

How It Works
Contact the Rabun County Tax Commissioner’s Office to ask about unsold properties.

Benefits

• No bidding wars
• Fixed redemption amount
• Still eligible for 20% return if redeemed

Why Rabun County Is a Smart Choice

Real Estate Highlights

• Homes near Lake Rabun, Lake Burton, and Lake Seed are in high demand.
• Limited flat land supports long-term property value.
• Short-term rentals do well thanks to steady tourist flow.

Ideal for Remote Workers and Retirees
Reliable internet in key areas, mild climate, and peaceful surroundings make this county attractive for both full-time living and vacation homes.

Summary: The Potential in Rabun County

Rabun County offers more than just scenic views—it’s a practical and potentially profitable place for tax deed investing. With a 20% return and a well-managed auction process, it stands out in the state.

Pro Tips

• Visit or research the property before bidding.
• Only bring cash or certified funds.
• Read the legal ad carefully.
• Know the quiet title process ahead of time.
• Be realistic about mountain property—some lots are steep or landlocked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bid online?
No. Rabun County auctions are in person only.

Do I own the property after the auction?
No. The original owner has one year and one day to redeem it.

How much interest do I earn?
You earn a minimum of 20% if the property is redeemed.

Can I use a credit card to pay?
No. Only cash or cashier’s checks are accepted.

Do I need to live in Georgia to bid?
No. Anyone can participate, even international buyers.

Useful Links

• Rabun County Tax Sales Page
• Rabun County Tax Commissioner
• Rabun County Website
• Georgia Public Notice – Tax Sale Ads
• Georgia Clerks Authority (Deeds)
• 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?

Make sure you’re ready before the next auction. Visit our Auction Calendar for upcoming sale dates in Rabun County. If you’re new to tax sale investing or want help getting started, don’t wait—book a call with us today. And while you’re at it, browse through our free resources filled with tips and checklists to guide you through every step of the process

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