Understanding Okaloosa County, Florida, Tax Sales

Okaloosa County, Florida, conducts tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes and return properties to the tax rolls. Managed by the Tax Collector’s Office and the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, these sales involve two primary methods: tax certificate sales and tax deed sales. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:

Tax Certificate Sales

Annual Auction The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office holds an annual tax certificate sale, typically in May. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions. Online Platform Tax certificate sales are conducted online. Interested bidders must create a user profile, declare their budget, and initiate payment for their deposit through the website. Bidding Process Bidders compete by accepting lower interest rates, starting from a maximum of 18%. The certificate is awarded to the bidder willing to accept the lowest interest rate. Redemption Period Property owners have up to two years from April 1 of the year the tax certificate was issued to redeem the certificate by paying the delinquent taxes plus interest. If not redeemed, the certificate holder may apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property.

Tax Deed Sales

Application Process: After holding a tax certificate for at least two years from April 1 of the year the certificate was sold, and if the property owner has not redeemed it, the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed. The process begins at the Tax Collector’s office, which prepares the necessary paperwork and forwards it to the Clerk of the Circuit Court for processing. Public Auction: The Okaloosa County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller schedules the property for a public auction. Online platforms host these auctions. Opening Bid: The opening bid includes unpaid taxes, interest, administrative fees, and other costs. For homestead properties, the total opening bid also includes one-half of the assessed value.

Important Considerations

1. Due Diligence: Buyers must conduct thorough research on properties before participating in tax deed sales. Property details, including ownership and encumbrances, appear in advertisements once a week for four consecutive weeks before the auction.
2. Payment Requirements: Winning bidders must post a 5% or $200 deposit, whichever is greater, for each property purchased. The buyer must pay the remaining balance using cash or certified funds by 10:00 a.m. on the business day following the sale.
3. As-Is Sale: The County Sell the Properties “as-is,” with no warranties regarding their condition, title, or location. Buyers are responsible for addressing any issues related to the property after purchase.

Steps to Participate

Tax Certificate Sales: Register on LienHub.com and submit your deposit. Bid on tax certificates and secure liens on delinquent properties. Tax Deed Sales: If you hold a tax certificate for over two years, apply for a tax deed to foreclose on the property. Participate in the public auction for tax-deeded properties.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Comprehensive Guide to Florida’s Deed Auction Process and Key Requirements
• 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? Watch this video!
• Explore the lucrative world of Florida Tax Liens and Deeds.

Okaloosa County’s tax sale process provides investors with opportunities to earn interest or acquire properties at competitive rates while helping the county recover unpaid taxes. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time participant, understanding the process and performing due diligence is key to success.

Need Assistance?

Explore our Auction Calendar and secure your spot in the next tax sale! If you need expert guidance or have questions about participating, book a call now to connect with a professional who can help you succeed. Don’t forget to browse our free resources for answers and actionable tips to make confident, informed investments.

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