Llano County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed: A Comprehensive Guide to Tax Sales
Introduction to Llano County and This Guide
Llano County sits in the rugged Hill Country of Central Texas. The county seat, Llano, is known as the Deer Capital of Texas and is surrounded by granite hills and clear rivers. Tax sales here give investors a chance to purchase properties with outstanding taxes and earn strong returns when owners redeem them. This guide explains how Llano County conducts tax sales, when auctions happen, and what rules apply. It also covers the redemption period, bidding process, and the steps needed to register. Whether you are new to tax deeds or looking to expand your portfolio, this article will help you understand the opportunities and risks involved.
What Is a Tax Lien or Tax Deed Sale?
Texas uses a redeemable tax deed system. When property taxes go unpaid, the county can auction the property. The winning bidder receives a deed to the property, but the original owner has a right to redeem it by paying the taxes plus a penalty within a statutory period. Unlike tax liens, where investors buy the debt, a redeemable deed gives investors a deed but allows the owner to reclaim the property during the redemption window. This system lets investors earn a premium on their investment while giving owners a final chance to keep their property.
Important Details Summary
The table below summarises key facts about Llano County’s tax sale process. Keep each cell under twenty words for clarity.
Item
Llano County Details
Tax Sale Type
Redeemable Tax Deeds (similar to tax liens)
Typical Sale Date
First Tuesday of each month (legal sale day)
Sale Time
Begins at 10 a.m. and must start no later than 1 p.m. (Central Time)
Redemption Period
2 years for homestead/agriculture/mineral properties; 180 days for other property
Interest/Premium Rate
Owner pays 25 % premium in first year and 50 % in second year; 25 % for non‑homestead properties
Bid Procedure
Public auction to highest cash bidder; bids may start at taxes owed
Deposit
Online bidders must place a cash deposit (often 5–10 % of expected bid) through Realauction; verify exact amount on the site
Registration
Mandatory; register on Llano County’s Realauction site; training webinars available
Auction Location
County courthouse at 100 W. Sandstone, Llano, TX 78643
Contact
Tax Assessor‑Collector Kris Fogelberg, PO Box 307, Llano, TX; phone 325‑247‑4165; email [email protected]

Fun Facts About Llano County
Population growth – Llano County’s population is around 23,379 people with an annual growth rate of about 1.09 %. It has grown more than 20 % since 2010.

Income and economy – The county’s median household income is about $65,636 and per capita income about $40,849. Cattle ranching and granite quarrying remain key industries.

Deer Capital – Llano is known as the “Deer Capital of Texas” because of its abundant whitetail deer population and hunting culture.

Granite and minerals – The area contains granite outcroppings that support quarries and produce granite used for buildings and monuments.

Historic charm – The LanTex Theater and the red sandstone courthouse built in 1893 provide glimpses into the county’s history.

Attractions and Economic Highlights
Attractions – Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is about twenty‑five minutes from Llano and is renowned for hiking, rock climbing and star parties. The Dabbs Railroad Hotel and Bed & Breakfast has hosted famous guests including Bonnie and Clyde. Local barbecue at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a must‑try.
Transportation – The county is accessed by Texas Highways 71 and 29. The nearest commercial airports are in Austin and San Antonio, both a two‑hour drive away.
Economy – In addition to ranching and granite, the area produces talc, feldspar and vermiculite. Tourism contributes to the economy thanks to outdoor activities, equestrian events and hunting seasons.
Community – Residents enjoy fishing, boating on the Llano River, rodeos and live music events. The small‑town atmosphere and scenic landscapes make Llano County attractive to retirees and vacationers.
Why Llano County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors
Llano County offers a unique combination of strong property demand and a predictable auction process. Ranching and tourism support stable property values. The county’s redeemable deed system allows investors to earn 25 % to 50 % premiums when owners redeem their property. The risk of losing your investment is low because you either receive the property or a fixed return. When compared with traditional real estate, tax deed investments can yield high returns while requiring minimal management. Investors should still perform due diligence to avoid pitfalls, but the combination of high premiums and stable property values makes Llano County attractive.
Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales
Texas law requires foreclosure auctions to occur on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. Llano County follows this schedule. The county now conducts auctions online through Realauction. To bid, you must register on the county’s Realauction site and place a deposit. Realauction offers free bidder training webinars and customer service support.
How the Auction Works
Notice of sale – The county posts tax sale notices at the courthouse and on its website. Each notice lists the property, amount owed, and auction time.

Registration – Investors create an account on the Llano County Realauction platform. Registration must be completed before the auction date. Realauction may require a deposit—typically 5–10 % of your expected bidding amount—to verify funds.

Auction day – Auctions start at 10 a.m. Central Time. The sale must start no later than three hours after the stated time. Bidders compete by raising the bid amount. The winning bid is usually the amount of taxes due plus costs, and bidding can rise above that.

Payment – The winning bidder must pay the full amount by cash or certified funds immediately following the auction. In person auctions require payment at the courthouse. Online auctions require electronic payment via Realauction.

Deed issuance – After payment, the county issues a tax deed to the purchaser. The deed gives immediate ownership, subject to the owner’s right of redemption. The buyer cannot take possession or make improvements until the redemption period ends.

Maximum Potential and Expected Returns

Investors in Llano County tax deeds receive a premium when owners redeem their property. For homestead, agricultural and mineral properties, the premium is 25 % of the purchase price during the first year and 50 % during the second year. Other properties have a 180‑day redemption period with a 25 % premium. This means if you pay $10,000 for a homestead property that redeems within six months, you receive $12,500—representing a 25 % return. If the owner redeems during the second year, you receive $15,000. Returns are fixed; they do not depend on interest rates or bid amounts. Because the state fixes the premium, investors can calculate returns with certainty.

Open to All Investors and Foreign Participation

Llano County tax deed sales are open to both local and international investors. You do not need to reside in Texas to participate. Online auctions through Realauction make it easy for remote buyers to register and bid. Foreign investors should consult their tax advisors about cross‑border reporting and currency transfers. Texas law does not restrict non‑residents from owning property; thus, international buyers enjoy the same opportunities as U.S. investors. If you live outside the state, be sure to hire a local title company or attorney to help you navigate the process and handle any post‑sale procedures.

Due Diligence Before Bidding

What Due Diligence Entails

Before bidding on a tax deed, investors must research the property thoroughly. Visit the county appraisal district’s website to verify property value, size, and land use. Check tax records for unpaid liens or assessments. Review court records for judgments or bankruptcies that may affect the title. Inspect the property in person when possible, or use satellite images. Confirm access, zoning restrictions, and whether the property is occupied. Researching comparable sales will help you set a maximum bid. Finally, budget for legal expenses, back taxes and potential repairs.

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping due diligence can lead to expensive mistakes. You may end up buying a property with structural damage, environmental issues or no legal access. Some properties may have tax liens from other jurisdictions or unpaid municipal charges. If you fail to research these, you could inherit those debts. In rare cases, a property may be redeemed at the last minute, leaving you with no asset and no returns. Due diligence mitigates these risks by revealing hidden problems before you bid.

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

If a property does not sell at the initial auction, the taxing entities may offer it later through a sealed bid or over‑the‑counter sale. Investors can submit a written offer to the county treasurer. The county usually accepts the highest reasonable offer. Over‑the‑counter purchases often come with a fixed premium and no competitive bidding. These deeds can provide good returns but may involve properties that are less desirable or require more repairs. Always check the county website for available OTC properties and submission deadlines.

How to Purchase OTC Liens/Deeds

1. Review the list of unsold properties on the county’s tax sale page.
   
2. Complete the bid form and submit it with a deposit (often $50 or a percentage of your offer) to the tax office.
   
3. If your offer is accepted, pay the balance and receive the deed.
   

Benefits of OTC Purchases

OTC purchases let you avoid the pressure of an auction. You can negotiate a purchase price and enjoy a fixed premium on redemption. There is no bidding competition, so you may acquire property at a lower cost. However, fewer properties are available, and due diligence remains essential.

Why Llano County Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Llano County enjoys a diverse economy fueled by tourism, ranching, and granite quarries. It lies within the Texas Hill Country, a region experiencing population growth and rising property values. Texas does not levy a state income tax, which attracts retirees and businesses. These factors support strong demand for real estate and make tax deeds more likely to redeem. Investors also benefit from a fixed premium system, guaranteeing returns of 25 % to 50 %.

Real Estate Market Overview

Property values in Llano County have increased steadily over the past decade. Much of the housing stock consists of ranches, vacation homes and small town properties. The growing popularity of outdoor recreation and remote work has drawn new residents. While some areas remain rural, communities near the river and highways are expanding. Investors should examine each property’s location, access and utility availability to gauge resale potential.

Conclusion

Llano County’s redeemable tax deed sales offer a straightforward way to invest in real estate while earning high returns. Auctions occur on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the county courthouse. Registration is required through the Realauction platform, and bidders must place a deposit. Winning bidders pay cash at the auction and receive a tax deed. Owners may redeem the property within two years for homestead or agriculture properties or 180 days for others, paying a 25 % premium in the first year and 50 % in the second year. The county’s steady economy, growing population and scenic environment make it attractive for investors. Always conduct thorough due diligence to avoid risks. With careful planning, Llano County tax deed investing can be rewarding.

Pro Tips

• Register early and confirm deposit requirements. Realauction may take a few days to verify funds.
  
• Review each property’s legal description. Rural parcels may lack road access or utilities.
  
• Set a maximum bid. Do not exceed your budget or the property’s assessed value.
  
• Monitor redemption deadlines. Keep track of when each property can be redeemed to plan cash flow.
  
• Hire a local attorney for quiet title. After the redemption period, you may need a court action to clear title.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is financing available for Llano County tax deeds?
You must pay for the deed with cash or certified funds on the day of the sale. Banks typically do not finance tax deed purchases.

Can I take possession of the property immediately after winning the auction?
You receive a deed, but you cannot take possession or make improvements until the redemption period expires. If the property is occupied, follow legal procedures before entry.

What happens if no one bids on a property?
Unsold properties may be offered later through a sealed bid or over‑the‑counter sale, allowing investors to purchase them at negotiated prices.

How do I clear the title after the redemption period?
A tax deed may convey limited title. After the redemption period, you can file a quiet title action to obtain insurable title, which may take several months and legal fees.Are there additional liens on tax deed properties?
A tax deed wipes out most junior liens, but senior liens, homeowner association dues and federal tax liens may survive. Always research public records before bidding.

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?

Llano County investors, your first step is to review the Auction Calendar for active sales. Use our free resources to understand the process, and if you need help with a strategy, book a call to speak with someone who’s been there.

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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

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