Burleson County, Texas Tax Sales – Everything You Need to Know

Buying properties at county tax sales is a popular way to invest in real estate without paying high prices. Burleson County, Texas, has tax sales a few times a year. They follow state laws to protect taxpayers while giving investors a chance to earn good money. This guide explains how the county runs its auctions, important terms to know, and why this farming area just east of Austin could be a smart choice for tax sale investments.

Quick facts about Burleson County and tax sales

Overview of Burleson County’s tax lien/deed investing

Burleson County has a tax deed system. If someone doesn’t pay their property taxes, the county takes them to court. If approved, they auction the property. 

 The auction is on the first Tuesday of the month. The highest bidder pays immediately with cash or cashier’s checks. They get a sheriff’s deed, meaning they own the property, but the old owner can still redeem it for some time. 

In Texas, buyers get the property, not just a tax lien. If the old owner doesn’t pay within six months or two years, the buyer fully owns it, but may still owe on other loans linked to it.

Why Burleson County? Unique features and opportunities

Burleson County, located in the Post Oak Savannah of east-central Texas, has a population of around 21,045, reflecting a 22% increase since 2010. The county seat, Caldwell, offers convenient access to major highways and railways, enhancing its agricultural and industrial economy. The landscape features rolling woodlands and river plains, with Lake Somerville serving as a key attraction for outdoor recreation like boating, fishing, and hiking.

Caldwell is recognized for its Czech heritage, hosting the annual Kolache Fest every September, which includes baking contests and cultural activities. The area also boasts Lake Somerville State Park for camping and hiking, historic sites with late-1800s architecture and the Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum, as well as local attractions like Royalty Pecan Farms and Davidson Creek Park.

Why tax deeds in Burleson County are appealing

High returns with manageable risk

Texas offers great chances to make money with tax-deed investments. If someone buys a property and the original owner wants it back, they need to pay extra money. In the first year, that’s a 25% penalty on top of the price. In the second year, it goes up to 50%. So, even if the owner waits just one month, the investor gets the full 25% return. That’s like a 25% yearly profit, which is way better than what banks usually give.

The risks are that when investors buy properties, they do so without guarantees. There might be issues like pollution, broken parts, or old debts on the property. But if investors do their homework and find homes that are worth more than what they pay, they can get a good deal. If the owner doesn’t come back to claim their property, the investor keeps it for the paid price. Burleson County is growing, so these properties might become even more valuable later on.

Open to all investors

Texas tax sales welcome both local and foreign buyers. You don’t need to live in Texas to join. Sometimes, the county asks bidders to promise they don’t have unpaid taxes in Texas. You’ll also need to show a valid ID. Investors can use certified funds and bid in person. Right now, Burleson County doesn’t have online bidding, so anyone outside must send someone to bid for them. The auctions are held just a few times a year. This means there are fewer bidders compared to big cities, giving more chances for individual investors to get good deals.

Understanding the auction process

Step‑by‑step overview

1. Sale list publication: At least three weeks before the sale, the county posts a notice in the Burleson County Citizen Tribune and on the. The notice lists the legal description, delinquent taxes owed and minimum bid for each property.
   
2. Registration: Bidders arrive at the courthouse on the morning of the sale. Registration usually opens about 9 a.m., and bidders must present government‑issued photo identification to receive a bidder’s card. Some counties may require a statement affirming that the bidder is not owed delinquent taxes.
   
3. Bidding: Starting at 10 a.m. the sheriff or constable reads each property’s description and calls for bids. Bidders verbally raise the amount; the property is sold to the highest bidder for cash johnsonandstarr.com. Opening bids equal the delinquent taxes, penalties, interest and court costs. Bids below the minimum are not accepted.
   
4. Payment: Winning bidders must pay the full purchase price immediately after the sale, typically by cashier’s check payable to the Burleson County Tax Office. Some counties allow one hour to obtain funds from a nearby bank johnsonandstarr.com. If a bidder fails to pay, they may be liable for 20 % of the property’s value under Texas Rule 652.
   
5. Sheriff’s deed: After payment, the sheriff issues a deed conveying the county’s interest in the property. The deed does not guarantee clear title; it is the bidder’s responsibility to clear liens or obtain title insurance.
   
6. Redemption period: The former owner has up to two years (for homestead, agricultural or mineral property) or six months (for all other property) to redeem by paying the purchase price plus the statutory penalties. During this period the purchaser has possession and may rent out the property but should avoid major improvements. If the owner redeems, the investor receives the purchase price plus the 25 %/50 % penalty.
   

Expected returns

Returns depend on whether the property is paid back. If the owner repays within six months or during the first year, the investor receives 25% of the property’s cost. In the second year, for homes and farms, this amount increases to 50%. Should the owner fail to repay, however, the investor retains the property and can generate income through other means, such as rent. The return functions more like a penalty than traditional interest. Therefore, if the owner pays back after three months, the investor still secures 25%. Investors should prepare for the possibility of repayment and understand that returns will be limited to those specified amounts.

Importance of due diligence

Buying tax deeds requires researching each parcel thoroughly. Savvy investors examine the following:

1. Property condition: Visit the property if possible. Some tax sale properties are vacant or have burned structures. Investing blindly can lead to costly repairs.
   
2. Title search: Check for senior liens (such as IRS liens, HOA liens or mortgages). Texas law does not wipe out federal tax liens or some municipal liens. Title companies may not insure tax deeds until after the redemption period.
   
3. Market value: Compare the minimum bid with recent sales. Avoid paying more than 50–60 % of market value. In Burleson County, rural acreage may have limited resale demand, so consider how long it could take to sell if the property is not redeemed.
   
4. Land use restrictions: Review zoning, floodplain maps and environmental restrictions. Much of Burleson County sits along Yegua Creek and the Brazos River, so floodplain issues are common.
   
5. Costs after purchase: Purchasers are responsible for post‑judgment property taxes and any assessments that accrue after the sale. Investors should budget for insurance, maintenance and possible legal fees to quiet title.
   

Skipping due diligence can lead to unexpected liabilities, unsellable property or expensive remediation. Investors should consult real estate professionals or attorneys familiar with Texas tax sales.

Over‑the‑counter (OTC) purchases

If a property receives no bids at auction, it is “struck off” to the county. After a statutory period, the county may sell these properties over the counter. Buyers can purchase OTC properties at the minimum bid without competitive bidding. The redemption rules and penalties remain the same. Burleson County occasionally offers struck‑off properties through the appraisal district or the tax attorney. Check the county website or contact MVBA Law for lists of available OTC parcels.

Pro tips for Burleson County tax deed investors

• Bring multiple cashier’s checks: Because you won’t know your exact winning bid until the auction, bring several cashier’s checks in various denominations and some cash for small differences
  
• Check the day’s docket: Properties can be withdrawn up to the moment of sale. Review the final list posted at the courthouse.
  
• Look for homestead exemptions: Properties with a homestead exemption have a two‑year redemption period, increasing the likelihood of redemption (and the 25 %/50 % penalty). Non‑homestead properties have only six months.
  
• Network with locals: Many successful investors attend auctions regularly. Building relationships can help you learn about properties that may be worth bidding on or avoiding.
  
• Inspect rural properties carefully: Burleson County includes farmland, wooded tracts and lakefront lots. Rural properties may have access issues or be landlocked. Confirm road access and utilities before bidding.
  

Conclusion – Is Burleson County right for you?

Burleson County has a nice mix of countryside and a growing population. There aren’t many tax auctions, giving investors time to research properties. You can earn good money from the 25% to 50% penalty if the owner pays up. Holding onto properties can also lead to value increases. 

To succeed, do your homework, have money ready, and know Texas tax laws. If you need help, talk to a lawyer or real estate expert for guidance. Investing in tax deeds can be rewarding if done right. Take your time and enjoy the charm of Burleson County.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is there a registration fee?
Most Texas counties do not require a fee to register, but you must be prepared with funds to pay if you win.

What kind of payment is required?
Payment must be made in full on the day of the sale—usually by cash, cashier’s check, or money order. No financing is allowed.

How does the bidding process work?
The sheriff opens each property with a minimum bid equal to the back taxes, penalties, interest, and court costs. Bidders call out higher bids until the highest offer wins.

Can out-of-state or foreign investors bid?
Yes. Texas tax sales are open to anyone, whether local, out-of-state, or international, as long as you register and pay according to the rules.

What happens if I win but don’t pay?
If you fail to pay, you may lose your right to buy, be banned from future auctions, and face penalties.

Useful links

• Auction Calendar
• How to Profit from Texas’s Redeemable Deeds
• Let’s talk about redeemable tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Learn How to maximize profits at the Texas Tax Sales

Need A Hand?

Check Burleson County’s tax-sale on our Auction Calendar. Take a look and explore our free resources to help you get started. If you’re unsure where to begin or what comes next, simply Book a call for one-on-one guidance from an experienced pro.

Sign up or log in to view the full content.

Free help available

Get a Tax Deed in the next 30 days

Need a hand on your first deal at up to 90% off? Book a free call and we’ll guide you step by step.

Auction
Calendar Book a free
call Free
resources

About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded