Tulare County CA Tax Sale – Buy Property for Less Than a Down Payment

What if you could buy land or a house for less than what most people pay just for a down payment?

Tulare County is auctioning off tax-defaulted properties, and the starting bids are often just the amount of unpaid taxes. That means investors can walk away with property for a fraction of the market price.

Quick Overview: Tax Sale Details

Item	Details
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed (You receive the deed to the property)
Auction Type	Online through GovEase
Next Auction Date	Typically held in Spring or Summer (confirm on the official website)
Auction Start Time	Usually begins at 9:00 AM PT (check online auction portal)
Redemption Period	None (Tax deed sale – ownership transfers right away)
Interest Rate	Not applicable for tax deeds
Bidding Process	Shortly after winning the bid
Deposit Required	Competitive bidding starts at total taxes owed
Full Payment Deadline	Competitive bidding starts at the total taxes owed
Payment Types Accepted	Wire transfer or cashier’s check only
Transfer Tax	$0.55 per $500 of the final sale price
Where to Register	GovEase Tulare Auction Page
Deed Delivery	Mailed after payment and recording
Auction Info Website	Tulare County Tax Sale Info

Why Tulare County is a Great Place for Property Investors

• Properties often start at very low prices, based on unpaid taxes only
• The auction is completely online, so you can participate from anywhere
• High activity in Visalia and Porterville makes the area attractive for flips and rentals
• Large parcels of farmland are common, making it ideal for agricultural investment
• Since it’s a tax deed sale, there’s no redemption period—the property is yours after you pay

What You Need to Know Before You Bid

• Always research the property beforehand. Some may have liens, be landlocked, or come with legal issues
• These properties are sold “as-is” with no inspections, no guarantees
• If you want full legal ownership or to resell later, you might need a quiet title action

Interesting Facts About Tulare County Real Estate

• Tulare County is one of the top agricultural producers in the U.S., known for dairy, citrus, and nut crops
• Housing here is more affordable than in California’s coastal regions
• Cities like Visalia and Porterville are growing quickly, making them attractive for long-term investors
• Many auction properties are vacant land or farmland, offering unique investment opportunities

Local Attractions and Economic Highlights

• Outdoor activities include access to nearby national parks like Sequoia and Kings Canyon
• Transportation is easy with Highway 99 running through the county and regional airports nearby
• Key industries include agriculture, logistics, healthcare, and education
• Tulare County is known for its small-town feel with growing amenities and infrastructure

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone bid in the auction?
Yes. Anyone, including out-of-state and international investors, can bid if they register and pay the deposit.

Do I own the property right away?
Yes. Since it’s a tax deed sale, there is no redemption period. Once you pay, the county records the deed in your name.

What happens if the property has liens or unpaid utility bills?
Some liens may stay with the property. It’s important to check the title and property records before bidding.

Can I inspect the property before the auction?
No. These properties are sold “as-is,” and there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to access them beforehand.

How do I pay if I win?
You must pay by wire transfer or cashier’s check. Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted.

Pro Tips for First-Time Bidders

• Start with one or two properties to get used to the process
• Review the property records from the Assessor’s and Recorder’s offices
• Stick to a budget during the auction—avoid overbidding
• Learn about quiet title actions if you plan to resell or refinance the property

Useful Links

• Tulare Tax Auction Page
• Treasurer Website
• County Site
• GovEase
• 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 the Tulare County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website for information on upcoming auctions. You can also go to our Auction Calendar for upcoming auctions If you have questions about participating in tax sales or need guidance, consider booking a call with us. We also have Free resources available online to provide tips and answers for making informed investment decisions.

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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