Imperial Tax Sale – Get Properties at a Fraction of the Cost

Want to buy real estate in California for way less than market value? Imperial County’s yearly tax-defaulted property sale gives you that chance. These are properties with unpaid taxes that go up for auction. Anyone, even out-of-state or international buyers, can join in.

How It Works

Imperial County runs its auction online through Bid4Assets, usually in February. The process is straightforward, but you need to plan ahead.

What You Need to Join the Auction

To take part, here’s what you need:

• Register on Bid4Assets
• Submit a $2,500 refundable deposit
• Pay a $35 non-refundable processing fee
• Meet the registration deadline (usually early February)

Once registered and your deposit is in, you’re ready to bid.

Imperial County Tax Deed Sale Overview

Detail	Information
Auction Platform	Bid4Assets
Typical Sale Month	February
Registration Deadline	Early February (see Tax Sale Notice)
Deposit Requirement	$2,500 refundable + $35 non-refundable fee
Payment Methods	Certified check, money order, or wire transfer
Opening Bids	Include back taxes, penalties, and fees
Redemption Rights	Allowed until the auction; revived if unsold
Transfer Tax	$0.55 per $500 of purchase price
Deed Type	Tax Deed (does not guarantee clear title)
Due Diligence	Buyer’s responsibility to research properties

What Makes Imperial County Tax Sales Worth Checking Out

• Property prices are lower than in most California counties
• You can bid from anywhere, as the auction is online
• Open to everyone, including foreign investors

Auction Process: What to Expect

• Auctions usually run for several days in February
• All bidding is online
• Properties start at a minimum bid, which includes back taxes and costs
• The highest bidder wins and must pay quickly—no payment plans allowed

Tips Before You Bid

• Always research the property. Look at zoning, liens, and whether someone still lives there.
• These properties are sold as-is. You get a tax deed, but not necessarily a clean title.
• If a property isn’t sold, the owner can pay off the taxes before the next sale and keep the property.

Interesting Facts About Real Estate in Imperial County

1. One of the Most Affordable Areas in California
   Homes are much cheaper than in places like Los Angeles or San Diego.
2. Strong Farming Economy
   Over 500,000 acres of farmland mean high value for ag properties, especially those with water access.
3. Border Influence
   Many residents work in Mexicali, Mexico, which creates strong rental and housing demand near the border.
4. Growth in Renewable Energy
   With wide open space and lots of sunshine, the area attracts solar energy companies, creating land lease opportunities.
5. Lots of Vacant Land in Tax Sales
   Many tax-defaulted properties are undeveloped land, great for flipping or holding for future use.

Why Investors Like Imperial County

• Less competition than in major cities
• More flexibility in how land can be used
• Steady demand for rentals in key areas
• Future growth expected in logistics and energy sectors

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to live in California to buy?
No. Anyone can register, no matter where you live.

Can I finance the purchase?
No. You must pay in full using certified funds—no credit cards or personal checks.

Are there other liens on the property?
Some properties may have additional liens. It’s your responsibility to check this before you bid.

Will I get a clean title?
No. You get a tax deed, which may require a quiet title action to clear.

What happens if no one bids on a property?
The property remains with the original owner. They can redeem it by paying the taxes before the next sale.

Useful Links

• Imperial County Tax Sale Notice PDF (Updated)
• Imperial County Treasurer-Tax Collector Office
• Imperial County Government Website
• Bid4Assets Auction Platform
• Unlock Incredible Savings on California Properties with Tax Deed Auctions!
• Discover the intriguing world of Hybrid Auctions
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 
• Want to get started with Tax Liens? Click Here!
• Learn how to buy California real estate at a fraction of the cost

Need Help?

Check out our calendar for upcoming auctions. If you need more guidance or have questions about participating in tax sales, Don’t hesitate to consider booking a call now to connect with an expert who can help you navigate the process. You can also check out our free resources to find answers to your questions and provide tips for making informed investments.

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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