Long County Land Sales: A Smart Way to Start Real Estate Investing

Thinking about investing in tax sales in Long County, Georgia? This quiet, rural county offers a good chance to pick up affordable land. With the right preparation, you can make solid returns. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how it works.

Overview of Georgia’s Tax Sale System

Georgia uses what’s called a redeemable tax deed system. That means if you buy a property at a tax sale, the owner has 1 year and 1 day to buy it back. If they do, they pay you back your bid plus a 20% penalty. If they don’t, the property is yours after you take a few legal steps.

You can get high returns with less risk compared to other investment options—just be sure to do your homework.

Important Details – Long County, GA Tax Sale

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deeds
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of each month
Time	10:00 AM Eastern Time
Location	Likely at the Long County Courthouse, Ludowici, GA
Registration	On-site, around 9:00 AM. Bring valid ID and certified funds.
Redemption Period	1 year and 1 day from the sale date
Penalty/Interest	Flat 20% penalty in the first year
Bid Procedure	Public auction starting at taxes owed
Payment Method	Certified funds only; due right after the sale
Deed Transfer	Sheriff’s Tax Deed mailed to the buyer
Contact Info	Long County Tax Office – (912) 545-2127

Why Georgia is a Solid Choice for Tax Deed Investors

• Georgia offers a fixed 20% return on redeemed deeds.
• Property can be acquired well below market value.
• The process is open to both beginners and experienced investors.

Interesting Facts About Georgia

• Population: Over 11 million residents, ranking 8th in the U.S.
• Fort Stewart, near Long County, boosts rental demand.
• Georgia has used tax sales to recover unpaid taxes since the 1800s.
• The state allows investors from anywhere, including out-of-state and international buyers.

Local Attractions and Economic Highlights

Attractions Nearby
While Long County itself is quiet, nearby areas like Jesup, Savannah, and coastal Georgia offer parks, beaches, museums, and historic districts.

Transportation Access
The county is near Highway 84 and within reach of larger cities via well-maintained roads. Closest airports include Savannah/Hilton Head International.

Key Industries
Military, agriculture, and timber are major drivers of the local economy. Residential growth is happening slowly but steadily.

Community Life
People enjoy fishing, hunting, gardening, and small-town living. The area is family-friendly and appealing for retirees.

What Makes Long County a Smart Investment

• Low land prices with long-term growth potential
• Close to Fort Stewart, bringing consistent housing demand
• Good for new investors due to manageable size and easy entry
• Affordable properties compared to urban Georgia counties

How the Tax Auction Works

1. Arrive early at the courthouse and register by showing your ID.
2. Bidding starts at the amount owed in taxes and legal costs.
3. Highest bidder pays immediately using certified funds.
4. You’ll get a Sheriff’s Tax Deed by mail.
5. If the property is not redeemed within 1 year and 1 day, you can begin a quiet title process to gain full ownership.

Expected Returns in Georgia

Georgia’s 20% penalty applies whether the owner redeems the property in one week or 12 months. This is a flat return, not annual interest. If the redemption happens after the first year, the court may award additional interest during quiet title.

Can Foreign Investors Participate?

Yes, Georgia allows both U.S. and international investors to take part in tax deed auctions. You just need to be there in person or send someone on your behalf.

Don’t Skip Your Research

What Due Diligence Looks Like:

• Check for access roads—some parcels are landlocked.
• Review public records for back taxes, liens, or legal issues.
• Look into zoning rules and building restrictions.
• Visit or view the parcel location, if possible.

Why It Matters

Skipping research can lead to costly surprises—like land you can’t access or use. A great deal can quickly turn into a bad buy.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Long County

If a property doesn’t sell at auction, you can sometimes buy it OTC.

Steps to Buy OTC:

• Visit or call the Tax Office for available properties.
• Pay the back taxes to receive the deed.
• Properties sold this way still have a 1-year redemption period.

Benefits of OTC Purchases:

• No competition from other bidders.
• Fixed price—no auction pressure.
• Same 20% redemption penalty applies.

Real Estate Trends in Long County

• Ludowici is the main residential hub of the county.
• Fort Stewart proximity supports local housing demand.
• Property prices are lower than surrounding counties.
• Development potential is strong, thanks to open land.
• Population growth is leading to school expansion and new housing.

FAQs

Where can I find Long County tax sale announcements?
Check the legal newspaper and visit the Long County Government site.

What form of payment is accepted at the auction?
Only certified funds like cashier’s checks or money orders.

Is the auction online?
No, Long County currently runs in-person auctions only.

What happens if the property is redeemed?
You get back your money plus a 20% penalty.

Can I inspect the property before the auction?
You can check it from public roads, but not enter it unless you have permission.

Useful Links

• Long County Tax Website
• Long County Government Website
• Georgia DOR – Property Tax Info
• 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!!
  

Pro Tips

• Always verify road access—landlocked lots are common.
• Review recent comps from nearby Jesup or Wayne County.
• Some lots have timber value—factor that into your bid.
• Bring certified checks in multiple amounts (e.g., $1,000 and $5,000).

Ready to Take Action?

Ready to explore Long County auctions? Visit the Auction Calendar to find what’s coming up, use our free resources to prepare, and book a call with our experts when you’re ready to move forward

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