Coryell County Tax Sales: A Guide for Investors

Coryell County is in central Texas, about eighty miles from Austin and two hours from Dallas. Gatesville is the county seat, known for its old courthouse and nearby Fort Hood. 

The county holds tax deed auctions where you can buy properties for less. This article covers how the tax sale works, key dates, and why the area is good for real estate. All times are in Central Time, one hour behind Manila.

Brief Overview of Coryell County’s Tax Sales

Texas collects unpaid property taxes by selling the property. In Coryell County, buyers get a deed, but the old owner can still reclaim it. 

Homeowners or farmers have two years to pay back what they owe. Others have 180 days. To get their property back, they must pay the purchase price plus extra costs. In the first year, that’s 25 percent more. In the second year, it’s 50 percent more.

During this time, buyers can’t use the property but earn money if the owner pays to get it back.

Summary of Important Details

Investing in Coryell County: Why Consider It?

Coryell County is a great place to think about investing. It has a nice mix of country charm, good location, and affordable living costs. The population is growing, which is a good sign for housing and the economy.  

One interesting thing about investing here is the chance to earn money through redeemable deeds. In the first year, investors can get a 25% return, and in the second year, it can go up to 50%. If the property isn’t claimed back, investors can own it outright, often for less than it’s worth. Many people see Texas’s tax deed sales as a smart way to invest money with manageable risks.

The bidding process is simple and fair. The highest cash bid wins, and you can’t lower bids like in other states. This makes things clear and keeps returns looking good. Plus, anyone can invest here, no matter where they live, as long as they have ID and money. 

Gatesville is known as the “Spur Capital of Texas” because of its amazing collection of spurs at a local museum. There’s also Fort Hood, the biggest military base in the U.S., which helps the local economy. The Last Picture Show Drive-In Theater offers a fun, nostalgic experience. These attractions show that the community is lively and welcoming. 

Every June, Gatesville has a fun festival called the Shivaree. It includes a run, music, and local vendors, drawing lots of visitors each year. Besides that, there are cool places to see like the Coryell County Courthouse and historic Fort Gates. The county also offers great outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. 

Coryell County has good roads and is easy to get to. It connects well to larger cities like Waco and Austin, thanks to highways and nearby airports. The local economy used to be mostly about farming and ranching, but it has changed over time to include more jobs in services, retail, and manufacturing.

Auction Process for Coryell County Tax Deed Sales

How the Auction Works

1. Notice and property list. The county clerk publishes a list of properties and opening bids several weeks before the auction. Interested buyers can find upcoming sale notices on the county’s website or the MVBA Monthly Tax Sales page.
   
2. Registration. On the morning of the auction, bidders must register at the courthouse with valid identification. Registration is on‑site and typically opens about an hour before the sale. Bring cash or cashier’s checks for payment.
   
3. Auction start. The auction begins at 10:00 AM CT on the courthouse steps. The deputy or sheriff reads each property description and opening bid, then accepts higher bids until the highest bid is reached.
   
4. Payment and deed. Winning bidders must pay their bid amount immediately after the sale. The county issues a sheriff’s deed without warranty, transferring title subject to redemption.
   
5. Redemption period. The former owner has two years (homestead/agricultural) or 180 days (other property) to redeem by paying the bid amount plus the statutory premium. If the property is not redeemed, the purchaser obtains clear title after the redemption period.
   

Expected Returns

Texas tax deed investors earn returns through statutory premiums. On homestead or agricultural property, the premium is 25 % of the purchase price if the owner redeems within the first year, and 50 % if redemption occurs in the second year. For other properties, the premium is 25 % within the 180‑day period. Because the premium is fixed by law, investors know their potential return in advance. Should the property not be redeemed, investors may benefit from appreciation or rental income.

Open to Foreign Investors

The county and state impose no residency requirements for bidders. Any individual or entity who registers and provides funds may participate, making Coryell County auctions accessible to investors from other states or countries. Nevertheless, due diligence (examining property condition, title issues and liens) is crucial before bidding.

Due Diligence for Coryell County Tax Deed Investors

Research property details. Examine each property’s appraisal district record, aerial imagery and tax history. Confirm whether a structure exists, its condition and whether it might require repairs.

Perform a title search. Texas tax deeds do not guarantee clear title; IRS liens, HOA assessments or mineral rights may survive the sale. Investors should consult a title company or attorney to identify potential issues.

Inspect the property when possible. While Texas does not allow entry onto private property without permission, you can drive by to assess neighbourhood conditions and market value.

Understand redemption rights. Recognise that homestead or agricultural properties can be redeemed for two years. If you need a quick turnover, you may prefer non-homestead properties with 180‑day redemption periods.

Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Purchases

Properties not sold at auction may be purchased directly from the county after the sale. These over‑the‑counter deeds can offer fixed premiums and eliminate bidding competition. Interested investors should contact the tax assessor or MVBA law firm for information on available OTC properties and pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When are Coryell County tax sales held? Tax sales occur on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 AM CT on the courthouse steps.

Do I need to register before attending? Yes. Registration is conducted on-site on the morning of the sale; bring photo identification and your payment method.

What payment methods are accepted? Payment must be made immediately by cash or cashier’s check.

What happens if the previous owner redeems? You will receive your purchase price plus a statutory premium of 25–50 % depending on the redemption period.

Where can I find upcoming sale lists? Visit the Coryell County Clerk’s web page for foreclosure and tax sale notices or the MVBA Monthly Tax Sales page.

Pro Tips for Successful Bidding

• Attend several auctions as an observer before you bid. Understanding the rhythm of the sale and how quickly bidding proceeds will help you feel comfortable when you participate.
  
• Set a maximum bid and stick to it. Because they sell properties to the highest bidder, prices can rise quickly. Knowing the market value and your investment goals helps prevent overbidding.
  
• Inspect properties in person. A quick drive‑by can reveal condition issues that are not apparent from tax records.
  
• Budget for taxes and insurance. Coryell County offers a fantastic opportunity for investment. It features a delightful blend of country charm.
• Consult a local attorney for help with title issues, redemption rights and post‑sale procedures.
  

Conclusion

Coryell County combines historic charm, a steadily growing population and accessible transportation with a straightforward tax deed auction process. The county’s tax sales occur on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM, offering investors the opportunity to earn statutory premiums of 25–50 % or acquire property below market value. Because sales are open to everyone, including non‑residents, and because the county continues to develop economically, Coryell County stands out as an attractive location for tax deed investors. As always, perform thorough due diligence, attend auctions prepared and enjoy exploring this central‑Texas community famous for its spur collection, military presence and welcoming spirit.

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?

Coryell County tax‑sale listings are available in our Auction Calendar. Use our free resources to gain insight and confidence. And if you’d like help interpreting data or making decisions, just Book a call with one of our experts.

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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