Kent County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed Auction Guide

Introduction of the county and about the article

Kent County sits in rural West Texas. It covers rolling prairies and mesquite woodlands drained by the Salt and Double Mountain forks of the Brazos River. The county seat, Jayton, is a small farming and ranching town on State Highway 70 and U.S. Highway 380. With only about seven hundred residents, Kent County is one of the least‑populated counties in Texas. This guide explains how the county conducts its redeemable tax deed sales. It answers common questions about sale dates, registration, bidding rules, redemption periods and investor requirements. It also highlights local attractions and economic facts to help investors understand the area.

What is a redeemable tax deed in Kent County?

Texas uses a redeemable tax deed system. When property taxes go unpaid, the county seeks a court judgment and orders the property sold at a public auction. The winning bidder receives a sheriff’s deed but must wait through a redemption period before selling or improving the property. Kent County follows state law, so its tax sale is not a traditional lien sale. The property is sold outright to the highest bidder, subject to the former owner’s right to redeem. Because Texas law imposes a fixed penalty on redemptions rather than a daily interest rate, investors can earn a high return if the owner redeems. The penalty is 25 % in the first year and 50 % in the second year for homestead or agricultural property, and 25 % for non‑homestead property. 

Important details

Item	Summary
Tax sale type	Redeemable tax deed (hybrid) sale; bidder receives a deed subject to redemption.
Typical sale date	The auction is held on the first Tuesday of the month, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Time. If January 1 or July 4 falls on a Tuesday, the sale moves to Wednesday.
Redemption period	Former owners of homestead or agricultural property have two years to redeem. For other property the right of redemption must be exercised within 180 days (about six months).
Interest/penalty rate	Texas does not pay interest. Instead, the owner pays a 25 % penalty on the amount due if the property is redeemed within the first year and 50 % in the second year for homestead/agricultural property. Non‑homestead property pays a 25 % premium.
Bid procedure	Auctions use oral bidding. The opening bid equals the total taxes, penalties, interest and court costs or the market value set by the judgment. The property goes to the highest cash bidder.
Deposit/registration	Bidders must request a Statement of No Delinquent Taxes from the tax office before the sale and register on site before bidding. Payment is due by 4 p.m. the day of sale and must be made with cash or cashier’s check.

Fun facts about Kent County

• Tiny population: World Population Review estimates about 714 residents in 2025, making Kent County one of Texas’s smallest counties.
  
• Agriculture and oil: The county’s economy once revolved around cattle ranching and dryland farming. Oil discoveries after World War II produced more than 10 million barrels a year in the early 1980s.
  
• County seat history: Kent County was organized in 1892. Its county seat moved from Clairemont to Jayton in 1954.
  
• Transportation: State highways 70 and 208 run north‑south through the county and U.S. Highway 380 crosses east‑west. The remoteness means competition at auctions may be lower than in metropolitan counties.
  

Attractions and economic highlights

Kent County’s landscape offers sweeping prairies, salt forks and views of Double Mountain. The Kent County Courthouse in Jayton, built in 1957, anchors a small town square with historic charm. Travelers can explore remnants of Clairemont, the former county seat, and enjoy scenic drives along U.S. 380. Outdoor enthusiasts can fish or kayak on the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. Major highways 70 and 208 connect the county to nearby towns and make travel easy. 

The local economy relies on ranching, cotton farming and oil production. Oil wells still dot the landscape, and wind energy projects have begun to appear. Although there is little manufacturing, Jayton supports small businesses and a K‑12 school. Local events like the county fair celebrate the community’s farming heritage. 

Why this county is ideal for tax deed investors

Kent County offers investors high yields and minimal competition. Texas’s redeemable deed system pays a 25 % to 50 % penalty on redeemed properties. Because the county is small and rural, there are fewer bidders than in urban areas, which can mean better deals on land and homes. Properties often include large rural tracts and vacant lots suitable for ranching or recreation. With population declining and many owners unable to keep up with taxes, sales can offer attractive opportunities.

Auction process for tax deed sales

Texas law requires county tax sales to be held between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. Kent County schedules auctions only when there are properties to sell. Notices are posted on the courthouse door and published in a local newspaper at least 21 days before the sale. Bidders must obtain a Statement of No Delinquent Taxes from the tax assessor‑collector before the sale; this cannot be obtained on the sale day and must be requested by the preceding Friday. On the morning of the sale, bidders register at the courthouse and receive a bidder card.

How the auction works

1. Check the list: The county or its tax sale attorney lists properties at least three weeks before the auction. Review legal descriptions, visit properties and research liens.
   
2. Get your statement: Request a written statement from the tax assessor‑collector certifying that you do not owe delinquent taxes in Kent County. Bring proof of identity and corporate paperwork if buying through a company.
   
3. Register: Arrive at the courthouse before 10 a.m. on sale day and present your statement to register.
   
4. Bidding: The sheriff reads each property description. Bidding starts at the judgment amount or market value and proceeds by oral bids. The highest cash bid wins. If no one bids, the taxing unit may bid and strike off the property.
   
5. Payment: Winners must pay by cash or cashier’s check by 4 p.m. the same day. Failure to pay can result in liability of 20 % of the property value.
   

Sheriff’s deed: After payment, the buyer receives a deed without warranty. The property is sold “as‑is,” and the new owner must respect any redemption rights.

Maximum potential returns and expected returns

The Texas redemption system can produce strong returns. On non‑homestead property, the former owner must pay the purchase price plus a 25 % penalty to redeem within 180 days. For homestead or agricultural property, the owner has two years to redeem; the penalty is 25 % during the first year and 50 % during the second year. These premiums are fixed and do not depend on how long the investor holds the deed. For example, if a bidder pays $5,000 for a parcel and the owner redeems it in four months, the investor receives $6,250 ($5,000 plus 25 %). If a homestead owner redeems after 18 months, the investor receives $7,500 ($5,000 plus 50 %).

Open to all investors and foreign investor participation

Texas law does not restrict tax sale bidders by residency or nationality. Anyone can bid at a Kent County tax sale if they meet registration requirements and provide the no‑tax‑due statement. However, foreign investors should consider engaging a local attorney to help with legal documents and closing. All bidders must comply with U.S. tax reporting and may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Because auctions are in person, international investors often hire a representative. The sheriff’s office will not accept proxy bids without proper documentation. 

What due diligence entails

Research before bidding: Investors should inspect the property, verify its location and review zoning or land‑use restrictions. Check county appraisal records and maps for legal descriptions. Visit the property when possible to assess access and improvements. Search county records for other liens, such as mortgages or municipal liens. Estimate renovation costs and market value to avoid overpaying. 

Risks of skipping due diligence: Buying sight‑unseen can lead to surprises. Structures may be dilapidated or occupied; evicting occupants requires legal action and costs. Unpaid liens or code violations can survive the tax sale. Without research, investors may buy landlocked parcels or properties with environmental issues. Always set aside funds for title quieting, insurance and potential litigation.

Buying over‑the‑counter (OTC) liens or deeds

If a property receives no bid at auction, it may be struck off and held by the taxing units. Investors can purchase these properties directly from the county at a later date. Contact the Kent County tax assessor‑collector’s office to inquire about struck‑off properties. Prices are often negotiable and do not require bidding. Because the redemption period may have started, buyers should verify remaining redemption rights and costs before purchasing.

Why Kent County is a top choice for tax deed investors

Economic and tax advantages

Kent County offers low entry costs, high penalty returns and little competition. Property values in this rural county are lower than those in metropolitan areas, so the judgment amounts are often modest. Investors can acquire large tracts for ranching or recreational use. The energy and agriculture sectors support the local economy, giving investors long‑term growth potential. Texas does not charge income tax, which can help investors retain more profit.

Real estate market overview

The local real estate market includes ranch land, single‑family homes and vacant lots. With a shrinking population and aging housing stock, many properties remain vacant. Investors who hold the deed after the redemption period may find opportunities to sell or lease to ranchers or hunters. Because the market is thin, due diligence and patience are critical.

Conclusion

Kent County’s tax deed auctions combine small‑town charm with attractive returns. Auctions are held on the first Tuesday of the month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Time, and bidders must register in advance with a statement showing they owe no delinquent taxes. Properties are sold to the highest bidder for cash. Redeemable deed investors can earn a 25 % to 50 % premium if owners redeem. The small population and rural landscape mean less competition and unique opportunities. With careful research and respect for redemption rights, Kent County tax sales can become a rewarding addition to an investor’s portfolio.

Pro tips

• Build local connections: Visit the courthouse and introduce yourself to the tax assessor‑collector. Personal relationships can help you learn about upcoming sales and struck‑off properties.
  
• Inspect properties: Drive by or use satellite images to check access and conditions. Avoid buying landlocked parcels or buildings beyond repair.
  
• Bring varied cashier’s checks: Bring multiple denominations so you can pay the exact amount due. Change is not provided at the sale.
  
• Budget for title work: After the redemption period ends, hire a title company or attorney to quiet the title. This will make resale easier.
  
• Stay patient: Kent County may not hold a sale every month. Monitor public notices and the county website for announcements.
  

Frequently asked questions

Do I get immediate possession after winning? No. You receive a sheriff’s deed, but former owners or occupants may remain until the redemption period expires. Eviction requires legal steps.

What happens if a property has other liens? Tax sales may not wipe out certain liens, such as IRS liens or municipal code liens. Research records and be prepared to pay or negotiate those liens.

Can I finance a tax deed purchase? No. Payment must be in cash or cashier’s check by 4 p.m. on sale dayj. Some investors use private funds or lines of credit to prepare multiple cashier’s checks.

How do I quiet title? After the redemption period ends, hire an attorney to file a suit to quiet title. This clears claims and allows you to obtain title insurance.What if the property is occupied? If former owners or tenants remain after the redemption period, you must follow Texas eviction procedures. Always consider relocation costs when evaluating a property.

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?

Kent County tax-sale properties are now listed in our Auction Calendar. Explore the options and use our free resources to understand the entire process, from start to finish. If you’d like extra guidance or just want to talk things through, you can always book a call.

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