What You Should Know Before Attending a Harris County Tax Auction

Thinking about investing in tax-delinquent property in Georgia? Harris County might be a great place to start. This article walks you through what to expect at a Harris County tax deed sale, how the process works, and why many investors are keeping a close eye on this growing area.

A Quick Look at Tax Sales in Georgia

In Georgia, tax sales are done through tax deeds, not tax lien certificates. That means when you win a property at auction, you’ll get a deed—not just a lien. However, the original owner still has time to reclaim their property during what’s called a redemption period.

Important Details for Harris County, GA Tax Sales

Here’s an easy-to-follow breakdown of what you need to know:

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of the month (if delinquent properties are available)
Redemption Period	12 months
Interest Rate	20% minimum return if redeemed
Bid Procedure	Live, in-person auction. Bidding starts at amount owed in taxes, penalties, and fees. Highest bidder wins.
Deposit Requirement	Full payment required immediately after auction via certified funds (cashier’s check)
Auction Time	Starts at 10:00 AM ET (arrive early for registration)
Auction Location	Harris County Courthouse – 102 North College Street, Hamilton, GA 31811
Where to Register	On-site, before auction (bring valid ID)
How to Stay Updated	Harris County Official Website, GeorgiaTaxSales.com – Harris Listings, or legal notices in The Hamilton Journal
Contact Info	Harris County Tax Commissioner’s Office: 706-628-4958

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Georgia has 159 counties—more than any other state except Texas.
• Harris County has a population of about 36,000 people and is growing steadily.
• Property taxes in Georgia are generally lower than the national average.
• State law provides a 12-month redemption period for tax-deed properties.
• Investors must follow a legal process to gain full ownership after redemption ends.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Natural areas like F.D. Roosevelt State Park
• Scenic recreation near Lake Harding
• Historical towns such as Pine Mountain and Hamilton

Transportation

• Well-connected by U.S. Highways 27 and 431
• Close to Columbus, GA (roughly 30 minutes)
• Near Columbus Metropolitan Airport

Economic Development

• Key sectors include construction, healthcare, public education, and real estate
• New residential communities are steadily developing
• A mix of rural charm and suburban convenience

Community Appeal

• Known for peaceful living with nearby city access
• Great for hiking, boating, and weekend getaways
• Strong school system draws families to the area

Why Georgia is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns with Low Risk
Georgia offers a 20% minimum return if the property is redeemed, making it attractive for investors looking for a low-risk investment with solid returns.

Auction Process in Harris County

• Auctions are held live and in-person
• Start time is 10:00 AM at the courthouse
• Full payment is due right after winning a bid
• You’ll receive a tax deed, but not full ownership until redemption ends
• If not redeemed in 12 months, you can pursue quiet title to claim the property fully

Open to All Investors
Local, out-of-state, and international investors are welcome. The only requirement is that you register in person on auction day.

How the Harris County Tax Sale Process Works

1. Check for upcoming sales on the county’s website or GeorgiaTaxSales.com.
2. Show up early on auction day to register.
3. Bidding is done live, and the highest bid wins.
4. Bring a cashier’s check or certified funds for immediate payment.
5. If the property isn’t redeemed in 12 months, you can file for quiet title.

Expected Returns on Georgia Tax Deeds

Georgia offers a flat 20% minimum return if the property is redeemed, no matter when it happens during the 12-month period. If it’s not redeemed, you may gain full ownership at a much lower price than market value.

Foreign Investor Participation

Georgia does not limit participation based on residency. International investors can participate as long as they are physically present to register and bid.

Importance of Due Diligence in Harris County

What to Check Before You Bid:

• Visit or research the property location
• Look for access, zoning restrictions, or physical issues
• Review tax history and unpaid liens
• Check occupancy status and condition

Why It Matters:

• Skipping research could result in buying unusable land
• You could be stuck with costly repairs or legal issues
• Always confirm if a quiet title is needed

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Deeds in Georgia

If no one bids on a property at auction, it may be available OTC.

How to Buy OTC:

• Visit the Harris County tax sale page
• Contact the Tax Commissioner for available properties
• Complete payment and required forms

Why Consider It:

• No bidding wars
• Often cheaper than auction prices
• Still eligible for the 20% return if redeemed

Why Harris County is a Top Pick for Investors

Economic Strength

• Growth in housing and commercial development
• Proximity to a larger city (Columbus) adds rental and resale value

Real Estate Market

• Prices are climbing but still accessible
• Popular for custom homes, estate lots, and weekend properties

Conclusion: Is Harris County Worth It?

Harris County is a strong option for tax deed investors, especially those looking for lower-priced properties with upside potential. Just make sure you do your research, attend the auction prepared, and understand the redemption process.

Pro Tips

• Arrive at least 45 minutes early to register
• Bring multiple cashier’s checks in different amounts
• Research properties near Pine Mountain and Lake Harding
• Look into local zoning rules before bidding
• Be ready to hold the property for at least one year

FAQs About Harris County Tax Deed Sales

Can I bid online?
No. All auctions are held in person at the courthouse.

Can I own the property immediately after the auction?
You get a tax deed, but not clear title. The owner has 12 months to redeem. If they don’t, you’ll need to file for quiet title to get full ownership.

What happens if I don’t do a quiet title?
You may have trouble selling the property later. A quiet title clears any disputes over ownership.

Can I buy tax deed properties without bidding?
Yes. Some properties are available over the counter if not sold at auction.

Is this a good investment for beginners?
Yes, but only if you do your research. Harris County offers good returns and manageable risks.

Useful Links

• Harris County Tax Sale Info
• Harris County Official Website
• Georgia Tax Sales – Harris Listings
• Unlock Property Deals at a Fraction of the Cost in Georgia
• 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!
• Learn About the 90% Off Georgia Real Estate!!

Need a Hand?

Looking for tax-sale properties in Harris County? Start with our Auction Calendar. Use our free resources for insight, and book a call with an expert for tailored advice on how to proceed.

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