St. Lucie County Tax Sales: Two Paths to Real Estate Gains

St. Lucie County, Florida gives investors two ways to earn from unpaid property taxes—tax lien certificates and tax deed sales. These options allow you to earn interest or buy property, depending on how the original owner responds after falling behind on taxes.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

How St. Lucie County Handles Property Tax Sales

When someone fails to pay their property taxes by March 31, the taxes are marked delinquent on April 1. After that, the county begins the process of selling either a tax lien certificate or eventually the property itself.

Tax Certificate Sales

• Held once a year (usually late May or early June)
• Conducted online at LienHub
• Investors bid down from 18% interest
• The lowest bidder wins, and the property owner owes them the interest
• If not paid within 2 years, the investor can apply for a tax deed

Tax Deed Sales

• Held multiple times a year, depending on which properties become eligible
• Conducted online at St. Lucie RealForeclose
• Highest dollar bidder wins the property
• Properties are sold as-is with no guarantees

St. Lucie County Tax Sale Quick Facts

Feature	Tax Lien Certificate Sale	Tax Deed Sale
Type	Tax Lien Certificate	Tax Deed (Full Property Sale)
Auction Timing	Once a year (May/June)	Year-round, as needed
Redemption Period	2 years from lien purchase	No redemption once deed is auctioned
Bidding Style	Interest rate bid (starts at 18%)	Dollar amount bid
Deposit Required	Yes – varies by platform (LienHub)	Yes – 5% of winning bid or $200 (whichever is more)
Auction Location	LienHub	RealForeclose
Research Needed?	Yes – title check, taxes, property inspection	Absolutely – sold as-is, buyer beware
Owner Redemption Period	Yes – 2 years	No – after sale, new owner takes title
Registration Needed?	Yes – before auction	Yes – minimum 24 hours before sale

Why St. Lucie County is a Hot Spot for Investors

St. Lucie County offers good value, lower prices, and growing demand. Here’s why people are jumping in:

• Port St. Lucie is growing fast, with new homes popping up all over
• Cheaper than Palm Beach or Martin County, so investors get more for less
• Plenty of buildable land, especially in the western parts of the county
• High rental demand, driven by new residents and population growth
• Tax deed sales often offer deals below market value

Quick Facts About St. Lucie County

• Population: Over 350,000 and rising
• County Seat: Fort Pierce
• Major Cities: Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce
• Known for: Affordable real estate, family-friendly neighborhoods, and waterfront properties

Useful Links

• St. Lucie Clerk – Tax Deeds
• RealAuction St. Lucie
• St. Lucie Tax Collector
• TCSLC Delinquent Property Info
• 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

Pro Tips for First-Time Bidders

• Always research the property before bidding. Some have liens or may need repairs.
• Submit your deposit early. You can’t bid without funds in place.
• Know your budget and stick to it.
• Properties are sold as-is—check the outside and neighborhood if possible.
• Review the auction calendar regularly on RealAuction or the Clerk’s Office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone bid on these auctions?
Yes, both U.S. and foreign investors can participate, as long as they register and submit a deposit.

What happens if the property is occupied?
Tax deed buyers may have to go through a legal eviction process. It’s best to consult a local real estate attorney.

Are there any guarantees on the property’s condition or title?
No. All properties are sold as-is and without warranty. That’s why research is critical.

Can I buy properties after the auction if no one bids?
Yes, unsold properties may become available “Over-the-Counter” (OTC). Contact the Clerk for OTC procedures.

Need A Hand?

Explore the auction calendar to stay informed about upcoming sales in St. Lucie County. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in these auctions and explore new investment options. If you have questions or would like expert guidance, consider scheduling a call with a knowledgeable professional who can help you navigate each step. Additionally, explore free online resources to expand your knowledge and strengthen your investment strategies.

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