Marion County, Arkansas Tax Deed Sales: A Complete Guide for 2025

Investors interested in Arkansas real estate often hear about tax lien certificates and tax deed auctions. While some states sell tax‑lien certificates that pay a fixed return, Arkansas operates as a tax‑deed state – delinquent property taxes are enforced by selling the actual deed to the land. Marion County’s auction is part of a statewide system run by the Commissioner of State Lands (COSL), and understanding how the process works is the first step toward making an informed investment.

Overview of Arkansas tax‑deed investing

What makes Arkansas different? Arkansas counties certify properties that are two years delinquent to the Commissioner of State Lands. Once certified, anyone may redeem the property until 4 p.m. Central Time (CT) on the last business day before the auction. After that deadline, the state sells the property at a public auction and issues a limited warranty deed; the owner’s right to redeem ends at the sale. Unlike some states, there is no interest rate paid to investors – your return comes from acquiring the real estate itself.

The auctions are regional events held between July and October. Live auctions rotate among host cities to ensure facilities are available, and Marion County’s 2025 auction is scheduled for early September cosl.org. Unsold parcels are later offered in an online “post‑auction sale” where bidders place offers on the COSL website.

Important details at a glance

Topic	Marion County 2025 Details	Sources
Sale type	Tax deed sale (no tax‑lien certificates)	COSL rules
Typical sale date	Live auctions are held once a year between July – October. Marion County’s next auction is 3 September 2025 at 10:00 AM CT cosl.org.	COSL catalog cosl.org
Auction time & zone	10:00 AM Central Time (CT) cosl.org	COSL catalog cosl.org
Registration required?	Yes. Bidders must register on‑site on the day of sale; registration opens 30 minutes before the auction and requires a driver’s license. No fee is charged.	COSL buyers guide & rules (support conversation)
Registration period	In‑person registration begins 30 minutes before the scheduled start and ends when bidding begins.	COSL buyers guide (support conversation)
Auction location	Signature Bank Community Room – Sides A & B, 303 N Main Street, Harrison, Arkansas cosl.org. Marion County’s parcels will be sold here even though Harrison is in neighboring Boone County.	COSL catalog cosl.org
Redemption period	Anyone may redeem a parcel after certification until 4 p.m. CT on the last business day prior to sale; no redemption is allowed once the auction begins.	COSL FAQ
Bid procedure	Parcels are offered in catalog order. The minimum bid equals the delinquent taxes, interest, penalties and costs. Bidding is oral; the highest bidder wins and must pay in full at the sale.	COSL FAQ
Payment terms	Full purchase price is due immediately. Payments may be made by personal or business check, cashier’s check, money order or credit/debit card if Wi‑Fi is available; cash is not accepted.	COSL FAQ
Deposit requirement	None for live auctions. For post‑auction online sales, the first $100 of each successful bid is automatically charged to the bidder’s card and applied toward the purchase (earnest money).	COSL rules (support conversation)
Deed & litigation period	After payment, the COSL issues a limited warranty deed. Purchasers should wait 90 days before making major improvements because the deed can be challenged during this litigation period.	COSL FAQ
Contact for information	Commissioner of State Lands, Real Estate Division, 7003 Valley Ranch Drive, Little Rock, AR 72223. Phone: 501‑324‑9422, Email: [email protected].
Local tax questions: Carla Purdome – Marion County Collector, 300 E Old Main St., Yellville, AR 72687; Phone: 870‑449‑6253; Email: marioncounty.arkansas.gov.	COSL & county websites marioncounty.arkansas.gov
Updates & auction lists	The COSL Public Auction Catalog and View Next Auction pages list upcoming sales and parcels. Unsold parcels can be searched and bid online at	COSL website

Additional Arkansas highlights

• Arkansas is a tax‑deed state. Investors purchase the deed and are responsible for quieting the title if they wish to obtain clear ownership.
  
• No redemption after the sale: once the auctioneer gavels the property sold, the prior owner cannot reclaim it.
  
• Payment options are flexible—checks and cards are allowed, but cash is not accepted.
  
• Properties that don’t sell at the live auction become eligible for post‑auction online sales 30 days later. These sales require a $100 earnest-money charge at the time of bid.
  

Arkansas’s unique appeal: People, landscape and economy

Arkansas sits in the Southeast United States and is known for its rolling hills, fertile Delta and the Ozark Mountains. According to World Population Review, the state has around 3.1 million residents, making it the nation’s 34th most populated state. The economy is diverse, spanning agriculture, retail and logistics. Major employers such as Walmart and Tyson Foods call Arkansas home, and the state remains a national leader in rice and poultry production. The combination of affordable land prices and stable economic drivers attracts real estate investors looking for value.

Fun facts

• America’s first national river: The Buffalo National River in northern Arkansas was designated the first national river in 1972. It flows freely for 135 miles from the Ozark highlands into the White River, making it one of the few undammed rivers in the Lower 48 states. The 95,000‑acre park surrounding the river draws more than 800,000 visitors each year and offers kayaking, hiking and camping.
  
• World‑class trout fishing: The confluence of Bull Shoals Lake and the White River (just north of Marion County) is famous for producing record‑setting rainbow and brown trout, attracting anglers from across the country.
  
• Growing population centers: The state’s largest city, Little Rock, has about 204,774 residents. Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers) is one of the fastest‑growing regions in the United States.
  

Why Marion County and Arkansas are attractive for tax‑deed investors

When are Marion County tax sales held?

The COSL schedules live auctions by region once a year between July and October. Marion County typically falls in early September. In 2025 the sale date is set for Wednesday, 3 September at 10:00 AM CT in Harrison cosl.org. Dates vary each year, so investors should check the COSL catalog each spring when the schedule is released (usually in May).

What makes tax‑deed investing appealing?

Buying tax‑delinquent property can offer high returns because bidders purchase land for the amount of back taxes and fees. Marion County parcels often have minimum bids below market value. When a purchaser receives the limited warranty deed, they can resell, develop or hold the property. Unlike tax‑lien certificates, there is no fixed interest rate; the gain comes from the property’s appreciation or rental income.

How does the bidding work?

1. Review the catalog. The COSL publishes a list of parcels with legal descriptions and minimum bids.
   
2. Register on site. Arrive at least 30 minutes early with a government‑issued ID to receive a bid card.
   
3. Bid orally. Each parcel is offered in order. Bidding starts at the delinquent tax amount and increases until no higher bids are received.
   
4. Pay immediately. The highest bidder pays the full amount on site. Personal/business checks, cashier’s checks, money orders or credit/debit cards are accepted (subject to card fees). Cash is not accepted.
   
5. Receive your deed. After payment clears, the COSL records a limited warranty deed. Wait 90 days before making improvements.
   

What about the redemption period?

The original owner or any interested party may redeem a property until 4 p.m. CT on the last business day before the auction. Redemption requires payment of all taxes, penalties, interest and costs. No redemption is allowed on the sale date or afterward. Owners who redeem in the last 30 days must use certified funds. Because there is no redemption after the sale, investors gain clear possession (subject to quiet‑title action) once they receive the deed.

Are foreign investors allowed?

The COSL rules prohibit bidders whose home of record is outside the United States. U.S. citizens and entities may bid regardless of their state of residence. International investors interested in Arkansas should consider forming a U.S. entity and consulting legal counsel.

How does the post‑auction sale work?

Properties that do not sell at the live auction move to an online post‑auction sale after 30 days. Investors register at auction.cosl.org, complete an identity check, and place bids. The first $100 of any successful bid is charged to the bidder’s credit card as earnest money. The balance is due by certified funds within 10 business days. If payment is not received, the $100 deposit is forfeited and the bidder may be barred from future sales.

How long is the litigation period?

After the sale, there is a 90‑day period during which the tax deed can be challenged. During this time, a former owner or interested party could file suit alleging improper notice or other defects. Investors should avoid making major improvements until the litigation period expires. If a sale is voided, the COSL refunds the purchase price but not credit‑card fees.

Do I need to perform due diligence?

Absolutely. The COSL sells property as‑is and does not guarantee access, usability or clear title. Investors should:

• Research the legal description and locate the parcel using county GIS maps or DataScoutPro (linked in the catalog).
  
• Check for municipal liens or improvement district assessments, which may survive the sale.
  
• Visit the property to verify its condition and ensure it is accessible.
  
• Consult a title company or attorney to determine whether a quiet‑title action is advisable.
  

Skipping research can lead to costly mistakes, such as buying landlocked parcels or properties with environmental issues.

Marion County & Arkansas in context

Attractions and lifestyle

Marion County sits in north‑central Arkansas near the Ozark Mountains. The area offers abundant outdoor recreation, from boating on Bull Shoals Lake to floating the Buffalo National River, hiking in the Ozark National Forest and exploring historic towns like Yellville and Harrison. The county hosts the Turkey Trot festival each fall and is known for its scenic views and friendly communities.

Transportation and infrastructure

Harrison is connected by U.S. Highway 65 and State Highway 62, providing easy access to Branson, Missouri and Little Rock. The area is served by Boone County Regional Airport for regional flights, while major commercial airports (Northwest Arkansas National Airport and Springfield–Branson National Airport) are within a two‑hour drive. Rail service is limited, but good road networks support tourism and commerce.

Economic development

Beyond tourism, Marion County’s economy includes agriculture (beef cattle, poultry, timber), small manufacturing, retail and services. In the broader state economy, retail giants such as Walmart drive logistics and distribution, while the energy sector harnesses natural gas and renewable resources. The moderate cost of living and pro‑business environment encourage start‑ups and attract retirees.

Community appeal

Residents enjoy outdoor recreation such as fishing, hunting, camping and hiking. The county’s rivers and lakes provide eco‑tourism opportunities, and historic sites showcase Arkansas’s rich heritage. Seasonal festivals, farmers markets and community events foster a welcoming atmosphere.

Why invest in Marion County’s tax deeds?

• Low entry costs: Minimum bids often reflect only back taxes and fees, allowing investors to acquire real estate for a fraction of market value.
  
• Potential for high returns: Reselling or renting a property purchased at tax sale can yield significant profits because Arkansas does not impose a statutory interest rate – your return is tied directly to the property’s value.
  
• Stable real estate market: Arkansas experiences modest but steady growth; the state’s population has increased to about 3.1 million, and the economy’s mix of agriculture, logistics and retail creates resilience.
  
• Favorable regulations: Auctions are open to all U.S. residents; there is no lengthy redemption period; and post‑auction sales provide additional opportunities.
  
• Opportunity to serve communities: Buying and rehabilitating delinquent properties can return them to productive use, reduce blight and support local tax revenues.
  

Limitations and risks

Investors must consider risks such as unclear titles, unknown property conditions, surviving municipal liens and the possibility of legal challenges. Conducting proper due diligence, budgeting for legal fees and maintaining patience during the litigation period help mitigate these risks.

Pro tips for Marion County tax‑deed investors

• Arrive early: Registration opens 30 minutes before the auction; arriving early ensures you obtain a bid card and can review any last‑minute announcements.
  
• Bring the right payment: Have a personal or business check, cashier’s check, money order or debit/credit card ready. Cash is not accepted.
  
• Verify parcel location: Use county assessor maps or DataScoutPro to verify boundaries, access and zoning.
  
• Check for liens: Contact the county circuit clerk and tax collector to identify any municipal liens or improvement district assessments that may survive the sale.
  
• Budget for quiet‑title action: Obtaining marketable title may require legal action; set aside funds for attorney fees and court costs.
  
• Be patient: Wait until the 90‑day litigation period expires before making major improvements.
  
• Stay informed: The COSL publishes the auction schedule each year in May and updates the catalog regularly. Sign up for email alerts on the COSL website.
  

FAQs about Arkansas tax‑deed sales

How often are tax auctions held in Arkansas?

Each county conducts one live auction per year between July and October. Unsold parcels are offered online throughout the year in post‑auction sales.

Do I need to pre‑register?

For live auctions, registration is done on site; no pre‑registration is required. For post‑auction sales, bidders must create an account, verify their identity and place a payment method on file.

What happens if I win a bid but cannot pay?

Failure to pay the full amount at the live auction will result in the sale being cancelled and may bar you from future auctions. In the online sale, the $100 earnest money is forfeited and the bidder may be blocked.

Can the former owner redeem the property after the sale?

No. Redemption is allowed only until 4 p.m. on the last business day before the auction. After the sale, the buyer receives a limited warranty deed and the prior owner’s right to redeem ends.

What is a limited warranty deed?

A limited warranty deed conveys the state’s interest in the property but does not guarantee clear title. Investors often file a quiet‑title action to obtain marketable title.

Where can I find information on upcoming auctions?

Visit the Public Auction Catalog and View Next Auction sections of the COSL website to see dates, locations and parcels For unsold parcels, search auction.cosl.org. Local newspapers also publish notice of sales.

Useful links

• Marion 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! 

Chart: Arkansas 2025 tax‑auction schedule (approximate)

The chart above illustrates how Arkansas’s tax‑deed auctions cluster in mid‑summer. In 2025 there are about seven auctions in July, seven in August and one in September, demonstrating that most counties sell their delinquent properties before fall. Investors should plan vacations around this busy season!

Conclusion

Marion County’s tax‑deed auction presents a chance to purchase real estate at substantial discounts while helping clear delinquent taxes. Because Arkansas auctions are open to all U.S. residents and have no redemption after the sale, investors gain control of their properties more quickly than in many states. The key to success is thorough research: verify the parcel’s location, check for surviving liens, and budget for quiet‑title costs. With careful planning, Arkansas tax‑deed investing can unlock profitable opportunities and contribute to community revitalization.

Need a hand?

If you’re new to tax‑deed investing, consider consulting with an attorney or real‑estate professional. The COSL Real Estate Division ([email protected], 501‑324‑9422) can answer questions about auction procedures, and the Marion County Collector’s Office ([email protected]) can help with property‑tax information marioncounty.arkansas.gov. You’re also welcome to book a consultation with our team of tax‑deed experts—click the link below to schedule a call and gain access to additional resources.

Call to action

Marion County has tax-sale auctions listed right now. Visit our Auction Calendar to explore the listings. Don’t forget to check out our free resources to build your knowledge, and when you’re ready, Book a free call to speak with someone who can help you navigate the path.

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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