Miller County, Arkansas Tax Sale Guide (2025 Edition)

Introduction

Baxter County is located in the Ozark Mountains in north-central Arkansas. It is known as the “Twin Lakes Area” because it is close to two big lakes: Bull Shoals Lake and Norfork Lake. There are also rivers, like the White River and the Buffalo National River, that help make borders for the county. 

The area is about 587 square miles big and had around 41,600 people living there in 2020. Many people visit Baxter County to enjoy its beautiful lakes, rivers, and forests. In 2024, visitors spent over $218 million, which helped support 1,544 jobs in the area. People love to do outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking, which makes the county a fun place to visit all year long!.

Brief Overview of Arkansas Tax Deed Sales

Arkansas has a special way to sell homes and land when people don’t pay their property taxes for a long time, like two years. When that happens, the local government sells these properties at an auction, which is like a big sale where people can bid to buy them. 

Every year, the county holds this auction to sell off these properties. When someone wins the bid, they get a paper called a limited-warranty deed, which means they can own the property, but the state can’t promise that everything about the property is perfect or that no one else has a claim to it.

Starting in 2023, there is a new rule saying that people who owe money on their property must pay it before the auction happens—there’s no time to pay after the sale. Once the auction is over, the sale is final, but there’s a short time, 90 days, when someone can try to argue or challenge the sale if they think something is wrong.

Important Details

Detail	Information
Tax sale type	Tax deed – the state sells the deed to the property, not a lien certificate
Typical sale date	Annually between July and October; each county’s date changes yearly.
Time & Time zone	10:00 AM Central Time (CT). Registration typically begins about an hour earlier
Registration	Required. Bidders must register in person, provide a government ID and receive a numbered bidder card. Registration opens about 30 minutes to one hour before the sale and closes when the auction starts.
Auction location	Locations vary each year depending on availability
Redemption period	No redemption after the sale. Delinquent owners may redeem until 4 p.m. CT on the last business day before the sale; after that, sales are final
Bidding procedure	Bidding starts at the total of taxes, penalties, interest and fees owed. The highest bid wins. Bidders must register in person and pay in full immediately after the sale. No mail‑in or proxy bids are allowed. Payment may be made with personal or business checks or debit/credit cards; cash is not accepted
Deposit/Payment terms	For live auctions, the full purchase price is due at the auction site. For online post‑auction sales, the first $100 per parcel is charged to the bidder’s card, and the balance must be paid within ten business days.
Redemption deed/Title	Purchasers receive a limited‑warranty deed after payment. The deed conveys the state’s interest but does not guarantee clear title. There is a 90‑day litigation period during which the sale can be challenged
Who to contact	For sale details and redemption questions: Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands, phone (501) 324‑9422

Important Details Explained

What Kind of Sale Happens in Arkansas? 

In Arkansas, when people don’t pay their property taxes for more than two years, the county lets the state take over the property. Instead of just selling a piece of paper that says someone owes money (like a tax lien), the state sells the property itself. When someone buys it, they get a special kind of deed that shows they own it, but the state doesn’t promise that the title is perfect. This means there could be other claims or problems with the property, so buyers often ask a lawyer to help clear up any issues before selling it again.

When Do Miller County Tax Sales Happen? 

The state plans these auctions once a year, usually between July and October. In 2025, the Miller County auction was on July 29, starting at 10 a.m. It took place at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Texarkana, and people could register to bid starting at 9 a.m.

Do I Need to Sign Up? 

Yes! If you want to bid, you have to sign up at the auction. Registration is free and starts 30 minutes before the sale, but sometimes it’s one hour prior. You need to show a government photo ID to get a numbered card for bidding, and only people who register can bid.

Where Is the Auction Held? 

The auction’s location can change every year. The state picks places based on what’s available, and sometimes they group several counties together for a bigger auction. For example, in 2025, a big auction for several counties was at Henderson State University, and registration started at 9 a.m. The Miller County auction happened at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Texarkana. Because places can change, it’s a good idea to check the state’s auction website for the latest info.

How Long Do Owners Have to Pay? 

New rules say that property owners can no longer wait after the auction to pay their taxes back. Before, owners had ten business days to pay after the sale, but now they have to pay by 4 p.m. on the last business day before the auction. After that, the sale is final, and they can’t get their property back. Payments made within 30 days of the sale have to be in certified funds. Anyone, including the owner or someone interested, can pay up until that deadline.

What Are the Bidding Procedures and Terms of Sale?

Starting the Bid: The bidding starts with the total amount of unpaid taxes, fees, and costs for a piece of land. You can find this amount in the auction book. Don’t forget, you have to pay the current year’s taxes separately by October 15.

How to Bid: You can only bid in person. You raise your card to show your offer. The person with the highest bid that meets the starting amount gets the land. The auctioneer can change the order of the parcels if they want.

Payment: You need to pay right after the auction ends. You can pay with a personal check, business check, cashier’s check, money order, or a credit/debit card (but there might be a small fee). You can’t pay with cash. If you buy online, they will charge $100 right away, and you have ten days to pay the rest.

Deposit Rules: In Arkansas, you don’t need to give any money to bid in person. But if you are bidding online, you have to have a credit or debit card ready. They will charge $100 from your card if you win. If you don’t pay the rest, you lose that $100 and might not be able to bid again.

Getting the Title: After you pay and it’s confirmed, the state gives you a special paper called a limited-warranty deed. There’s a 90-day waiting period where people can challenge the sale, so it’s best not to make big changes to the land during that tim

Arkansas Fun Facts and Economic Highlights

If you want to get official information about land sales in Arkansas, you can contact the Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands. Their office is at 7003 Valley Ranch Drive, Little Rock, AR. You can call them at (501) 324-9422 or email them at [email protected]. You can also check their website to find out about upcoming auctions, lists of land for sale, and guides for buyers.

If you have questions about local taxes or want to know if you’ve paid your tax bill, you can reach out to the Miller County Collector’s Office. They are located at 400 Laurel Street, Suite 111, Texarkana, AR, and their phone number is (870) 774-1001.

To find out about future tax sales, the Commissioner of State Lands creates a Public Auction Catalog and a page with dates for next year. These pages have information about when and where auctions will happen, and they get updated often. They also share news on their social media accounts. Since places can change, it’s a good idea for bidders to check the details right before the auction.

Arkansas at a Glance

• Population and size: Arkansas is the 29th largest state by area and the 33rd most populous, with just over three million residents at the 2020 census. The capital and largest city is Little Rock.
  
• Name and pronunciation: The name “Arkansas” derives from a French transliteration of an Algonquian word for the Quapaw people. In 1881 the state legislature officially set the pronunciation to “Ar‑kan‑saw”.
  
• Economic pillars: Modern Arkansas’s economy relies on service industries, aviation, poultry, steel, tourism and major crops like cotton, soybeans and rice. Walmart, the world’s largest company by revenue, is headquartered in Bentonville
• Property taxes: Arkansas has some of the lowest property taxes in the country. Property taxes make up only 18.1 % of total state and local tax collections  Per‑capita property tax collections average about $699, the third lowest in the nation Amendment 74 requires each school district to levy at least 25 mills (0.5 % of assessed value) to fund education Annual increases in assessment values for homesteads are limited to 5 % and homeowners can claim a state credit of $350 against property taxes.

Attractions and Economic Highlights in Miller County and Surroundings

Miller County forms part of the Texarkana metropolitan area, straddling Arkansas and Texas. The county offers a blend of history, outdoor recreation and convenient transportation.

Popular Attractions

• Four States Auto Museum: Located at 217 Laurel Street in downtown Texarkana, this museum showcases over a century of automotive history
  
• Alex Smith Park: A riverside county park at 16731 Highway 237 in Doddridge, it offers fishing, picnicking and boating
  
• Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council (TRAHC): A cultural hub at 321 W 4th Street offering exhibitions, performances and arts education
• Four States Fair & Rodeo: An annual fairgrounds complex at 3700 East 50th Street that hosts rodeos, fairs and events.
  
• Regional Museums and Parks: Nearby attractions include the Texarkana Museum Systems and Big Dam Water Park.
  

Transportation Infrastructure

Miller County has robust transportation options:

• Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK): A modern 40,000‑sq‑ft terminal serves commercial flights and general aviation.
  
• T‑Line Bus System: Provides affordable public transport throughout Texarkana, Wake Village and Nash.
  
• Amtrak Station: The Texas Eagle line stops at Union Station on East Front Street, conveniently bridging Arkansas and Texas.
  
• Major highways: Interstate 30 and U.S. Highway 71 connect the county to Dallas, Little Rock and Shreveport.
  

Economic Development

The Texarkana area benefits from a diverse economy with manufacturing, logistics, agriculture and service industries. Its location on the state line allows businesses to leverage markets in both Arkansas and Texas. The county supports community centers, senior centers and neighborhood programs

Why Miller County, Arkansas, Is Attractive for Tax‑Deed Investors

Big Chances with Little Risk

Buying tax-deed properties in Arkansas can help you make a lot of money without taking too many risks. When people don’t pay their property taxes, the government sells their land for as low as the amount they owe. Sometimes, you can get a piece of land for much less than what it’s worth. In Arkansas, once you buy a property, you don’t have to wait long to own it for good, which is different from other states where you might have to wait a year or more.

Anyone Can Join In!

The auctions in Arkansas are open to everyone in the U.S. You just need to sign up and be there in person to bid. It doesn’t matter where you live in the country, but if you live outside the U.S., you can’t bid. This means lots of people can try to buy properties!

Easy Auction Steps

The auction is simple: First, you register to bid. Then, you look at all the properties that are for sale. You start your bid at the amount of unpaid taxes, pay right away if you win, and then you get a special deed that says you own it. You can’t send bids by mail, and you can’t pay in cash, so make sure you have your money ready. If a property doesn’t sell, there’s another chance to bid for it online by putting down a $100 deposit and paying the rest later.

What’s Happening in Miller County?

In Miller County, buying land is generally cheaper compared to big cities. There’s a town called Texarkana that’s in two states, which means it has different job opportunities. Property taxes are low, but there aren’t many pieces of land that are up for sale because people haven’t paid their taxes. This means sometimes there are a lot of people trying to buy the same property. Before you bid on a piece of land, it’s important to learn about it — like whether it’s in good shape, how you can use it, and if there are any debts linked to it. Many properties are empty lots or houses that are not taken care of. But sometimes, you might find a really nice piece of land that could be worth a lot!

Understanding the Arkansas Tax‑Sale Process

How the Auction Works

1. Certification: Counties certify parcels with unpaid taxes for at least two years to the COSL.
   
2. Publication & Notice: COSL publishes a legal notice and mails certified letters to owners and interested parties. Owners may redeem until 4 p.m. the last business day before the sale.
   
3. Registration: Bidders register on the day of the sale by providing government ID.
   
4. Auction: The auction begins at 10 AM (time may vary). Parcels are called in catalog order. Bidding starts at the amount of taxes, penalties, interest and fees owed
5. Payment: Winning bidders pay immediately with check or card; cash is not accepted
6. Deed issuance: After payments clear, a limited‑warranty deed is issued. A 90‑day litigation period begins

Expected Returns on Arkansas Tax‑Deed Investments

Because bidding starts at the tax owed, investors sometimes acquire property for cents on the dollar. After quieting the title, investors may resell or rent the property at market value. Market conditions in Texarkana and rural Miller County can influence returns. While some parcels may require demolition or clearing, others may be buildable lots near the state line. Investors should account for the 90‑day litigation period, any remaining liens (such as city liens or improvement district fees), the cost of quiet‑title actions and property maintenance.

Foreign Investor Participation

Arkansas auctions are open only to individuals and entities whose home of record is in the United States. Foreign investors would need to establish a U.S.‑based entity or collaborate with a domestic partner to participate.

Importance of Due Diligence in Arkansas Tax‑Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Entails

Due diligence includes:

• Researching the property: Use COSL’s catalog to obtain the parcel number, then consult the county assessor’s property card for physical address and approximate size. Visit the property when possible to assess condition and access.
  
• Checking for liens: Search county records for liens or encumbrances. Some municipal liens, improvement district assessments and IRS liens may survive the sale
• Estimating costs: Calculate the total investment, including auction bid, unpaid current‑year taxes, title clearing, repairs and future property taxes. Arkansas’s low effective tax rate (about 0.59 % of owner‑occupied housing value helps keep holding costs manageable.
  
• Understanding zoning and use: Confirm the property’s zoning and any restrictions by contacting the county planning department or city hall.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Investors who fail to research may end up with properties that are landlocked, located in flood zones, or subject to extensive municipal liens. Because the COSL’s limited‑warranty deed does not guarantee clear title buyers must often initiate a quiet‑title action. Skipping due diligence can lead to unexpected costs or unmarketable property.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Liens/Deeds in Arkansas

After live auctions, parcels that receive no bids are listed in an online post‑auction sale. Buyers can browse these “over‑the‑counter” parcels at auction.cosl.org. The process is straightforward: register, verify identity, place a bid, pay the $100 earnest money, and pay the balance within ten business days. OTC purchases may offer fixed pricing (the minimum bid), eliminating bidding competition. However, the same due‑diligence considerations apply, including checking for liens and verifying access.

Why Arkansas Is a Top Choice for Tax‑Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Arkansas has a low cost of living, which means that it doesn’t cost a lot of money to buy things or pay for a home. The state also has low property taxes, which are the money people pay for the land they own. There’s a rule called Amendment 79 that helps keep property taxes from going up too much each year and gives homeowners a $350 discount, which means they pay less in taxes. Arkansas has different kinds of businesses, like farming, making things, and providing services. In Miller County, which is on the border between Arkansas and Texas, people can easily sell their products in both states.

Real Estate Market Overview

Houses in Miller County are usually cheaper than in other places in the country. Texarkana is close to Interstate 30, which makes it a great spot for transporting goods. The number of people living there is growing slowly; Arkansas has a little over 3 million people, so there’s not too much competition. People looking to invest can find different types of land, like farms, house lots, and sometimes stores that are for sale through tax sales.

Pro Tips for Miller County Tax‑Sale Success

• Arrive early: Registration opens about an hour before the sale; arriving early ensures time to ask questions and review last‑minute changes.
  
• Bring acceptable payment methods: Have a checkbook or debit/credit card ready; cash is not accepted
• Research each parcel: Use the assessor’s website and county records to verify property location and condition
• Plan for quiet‑title actions: Budget for legal fees and consider hiring a local attorney familiar with Arkansas tax deeds.
  
• Monitor unsold parcels: After 30 days, unsold parcels move to the online auction; bargains can sometimes be found there.
  
• Remember current taxes: Winning bidders must pay the current year’s taxes (e.g., 2024 taxes due in October 2025) directly to the county collector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When are Miller County tax sales held?

Auctions are held once a year between July and October. Dates and locations vary each year; check the COSL website for the latest schedule.

What time does the auction start?

Most auctions begin at 10 a.m. Central Time Registration usually begins 30–60 minutes before the sale.

Is there a redemption period after the sale?

No. Under Act 241, the post‑sale redemption period was eliminated. Owners must redeem by 4 p.m. on the last business day before the sale Once the auction occurs, the sale is final.

What forms of payment are accepted?

COSL accepts personal and business checks, cashier’s checks, money orders and debit/credit cards. Cash is not accepted for purchases.

What happens after I win a bid?

You must pay the full purchase price immediately. After payment clears, a limited‑warranty deed is recorded. Wait for the 90‑day litigation period to pass before making major improvements.

Where can I find parcel information?

Visit the COSL website’s Public Auction Catalog to view parcel lists and minimum bids. Clicking the parcel number provides a link to the county assessor’s property card, where you can find legal descriptions and sometimes physical addresses.

Can I bid online?

Only parcels that remain unsold after the live auction are available online. You can register at auction.cosl.org, verify your identity and place bids. The first $100 of each winning bid is charged to your card; the balance is due within ten business days.

Are foreign investors allowed?

No. Individuals or entities whose home of record is outside the United States cannot purchase parcels at Arkansas tax auctions.

Useful Links

• Miller County Website 
• State of Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands
• Arkansas offers a wealth of opportunities with Tax Deed Investing
• 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! 

Conclusion

Miller County’s tax‑deed auctions offer investors an opportunity to acquire real estate at low entry prices in a region with affordable taxes and growing infrastructure. Arkansas’s elimination of the post‑sale redemption period and straightforward bidding process make the state attractive to both novice and experienced investors. However, due diligence is essential: always research properties, check for surviving liens, plan for quiet‑title actions and prepare funds in advance. By following the guidelines in this article and staying informed through official COSL channels, investors can navigate the Miller County tax sale with confidence.

Call to Action

Explore new options in Miller County by visiting our Auction Calendar for tax-sale property listings. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand, our free resources will guide you. Need support along the way? Book a free call to talk directly with an expert

Interested in Faulkner County investing? Check out our Auction Calendar to find your next property. Book a free call or access our free resources to start building your tax deed strategy today.

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