Bonner County Idaho Tax Deed Auction Guide For Investors

Introduction to Bonner County and this guide

Bonner County is in the far north of Idaho and includes lakes, forests and mountain towns. Sandpoint is the main city and sits close to Lake Pend Oreille. The area draws visitors year round and has steady growth. This guide explains how tax deed sales work in Bonner County. You will learn when auctions happen, how to join, where to find lists and how to prepare for a safe investment.

What is Bonner County’s tax deed process

Idaho does not sell tax lien certificates. Instead, the county takes a tax deed when taxes stay unpaid for three years. After the county takes title, it may place the property in a public tax deed auction. Buyers get a deed from the county, not an interest-bearing lien. Investors target gains by buying land or homes below market value and then renting or selling them.

Important details

Item	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Tax deed auctions only
Typical Sale Date	Often mid summer after tax deed hearing
Redemption Period	Fourteen months or until sale
Interest Rate	No interest. Value from resale
Bid Procedure	Online bidding on Public Surplus
Deposit	About one thousand dollars wire deposit

Fun facts about Bonner County

• Bonner County covers more than one thousand seven hundred square miles with a large lake and vast forest land.
  
• Lake Pend Oreille is Idaho’s largest lake. It supports fishing, sailing and summer tourism.
  
• Schweitzer Mountain Resort brings visitors through winter for skiing and snow sports.
  
• The county has steady population growth and a mix of tourism, tech firms and manufacturing.
  

Attractions and economic highlights

• Lake Pend Oreille, Schweitzer Mountain Resort and Sandpoint’s historic downtown.
  
• Access through US Route ninety five, US Route two and the Amtrak station in Sandpoint.
  
• Key industries include aerospace, forest products, food production and outdoor recreation.
  
• Strong outdoor culture with boating, hiking, skiing and many local events.
  

Why Bonner County is ideal for tax deed investors

• Steady population growth keeps housing needs strong.
  
• Large mix of land types with some parcels priced lower than major city areas.
  
• Buyers can target high returns when winning parcels near the opening bid.
  
• A tax deed gives direct ownership which can feel safer for long term plans.
  

When are Bonner County tax deed sales held and where

The tax deed hearing is usually held once a year in late spring. After that, the county schedules the tax deed auction. The auction often takes place during mid summer. Dates change each year, so always check the Treasurer or Public Surplus page.
The sale uses the Public Surplus online platform. All bidding happens on the site during set hours in Pacific Time.

Auction process for tax deed sales in Bonner County

The county sets a starting bid that includes unpaid taxes and costs. Buyers must register on Public Surplus and send a bidder deposit by wire. Once approved, bidders can join the sale and place bids during the open window.
The highest bid wins when the sale closes. The buyer then pays the full amount by wire within the time given. After payment, the county issues a Deed of County Property. Recording of the deed transfers the county’s interest to the buyer.

How the auction works on sale day

• Confirm auction dates and review the parcel list on the Treasurer website.
  
• Make a Public Surplus account and register for the Bonner County sale.
  
• Wire the bidder deposit before the deadline.
  
• Review maps, photos and parcel notes. Study the area and plan a safe offer.
  
• Place bids during the sale window. Watch the countdown clock.
  
• Pay the final amount by wire if you win.
  
• Wait for the county to record the deed and transfer ownership.
  

Maximum potential returns and expected returns

Investors in Bonner County do not earn interest. Returns come from buying below market value. Some buyers target land with public road access or simple rural homes that can sell fast once cleaned up.
Your return depends on the gap between your winning bid and the market value. Holding costs matter. These include taxes, insurance, repairs and selling fees. Buyers who choose parcels with easy access, modest repair needs and healthy demand often see stronger gains. Careful research helps set safe numbers before you bid.

How long is the redemption period

Once the county takes a tax deed, the former owner can redeem for fourteen months or until the auction takes place. If the auction happens before the fourteen months end, the sale removes the right to redeem. Some parcels at auction no longer have a redemption window.

Open to all investors and foreign investor participation

Bonner County allows buyers from anywhere. Local, out of state and international bidders can join the auction as long as they can register and send funds on time.
Online sales make it easier for foreign investors. The key is having a bank able to send wires fast. Some investors also work with a local attorney or title company to help handle closing steps. Foreign buyers often target simple parcels like land near roads or small rental homes.

Importance of due diligence in Bonner County tax deed investing

Tax deed parcels are sold as is. The county makes no claims or promises about condition, access or past liens. Your research protects your investment.
Good due diligence checks the land, the title, access, utilities and any nearby issues. Small problems can become large costs after the sale. Careful study before bidding keeps your plan clear and your risk low.

What due diligence entails

• Read the auction notice and all parcel details.
  
• Check maps and aerial photos to confirm access from a public road.
  
• Review assessor and recorder records for liens, easements or court filings.
  
• Study land rules, building rules and water or septic needs.
  
• Get a sense of sale prices and rent levels by checking local market data.
  

Risks of skipping due diligence

• You might buy land with no legal road access.
  
• Old liens or easements could block your plans or reduce value.
  
• A building could have major damage you did not expect.
  
• Market values might be lower than you think which can reduce your return.
  

Buying over the counter parcels in Bonner County

Some parcels do not sell at auction. These may stay in county ownership until someone makes an offer.

How to purchase over the counter

• Contact the Treasurer or the Board of County Commissioners.
  
• Ask for the list of parcels still held by the county.
  
• Submit a written offer if the county accepts written bids.
  
• Pay the approved amount and receive a county deed once recorded.
  

Benefits of over the counter purchases

• No auction pressure.
  
• More time to check the parcel.
  
• Chance to offer a price the county may accept for unsold land.
  

Why Bonner County is a top choice for tax deed investors

Economic and tax advantages

• A mix of tourism, tech and manufacturing supports steady growth.
  
• Lower property taxes compared to many coastal states.
  
• Easy online access to tax deed notices and parcel details.
  

Real estate market overview

Bonner County has lake homes, cabins, mountain land and small town properties. Demand comes from residents, second home buyers and people drawn to outdoor life. Sound parcels with good access often move well on the resale market. Buyers who keep plans simple and study each area tend to do well.

Conclusion

Bonner County gives investors a clear path to buy property through tax deed auctions. The process is steady. Taxes go unpaid for three years. The county takes the tax deed. Parcels then move to auction during mid summer.
Investors can earn strong returns by buying below market value and improving or reselling the property. Homework is key. Study each parcel and follow county rules. With care, Bonner County can be a strong fit for buyers who want real property ownership.

Pro tips for Bonner County tax deed investors

• Check past sale lists to see which areas appear often.
  
• Look at aerial maps for slope, trees, roads and nearby uses.
  
• Focus on parcels with public road access when starting out.
  
• Talk to local agents for simple price checks.
  
• Keep a checklist for title, access, utilities and exit plan.
  

FAQs

• Can I get title insurance
  After buying, many investors file a quiet title action to clear past issues.
  
• Are code issues my responsibility
  Yes. The buyer must handle old building or cleanup issues.
  
• Are homes always empty at sale
  Not always. You may need to handle occupants after you take the deed.
  
• Can I use a loan to bid
  Auctions expect fast payment so most use cash or private funds.
  
• What if I cannot pay
  You may lose your deposit and could be blocked from future sales.
  

Useful links

• Investing in Idaho Tax Deeds: Your Path to Real Estate Profits
• The Ultimate Guide to Tax Deeds: What You Need to Know
• Tax Deed Investing 101: How to Buy Property for Just $50!

Need a hand

If you want help with Bonner County tax deed sales, our team can guide you through each step. You can book a call, check our Auction Calendar and use our free resources to learn more. These tools help you plan smarter and move through each county with confidence.

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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