Tax Sale Success in Georgia: A Closer Look at Montgomery County Opportunities

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to invest in real estate, Montgomery County, Georgia might be a smart place to start. The county holds tax deed sales that allow you to buy properties at low prices, sometimes with little competition. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from auction dates to how to buy properties over the counter.

Brief Overview of Georgia’s Tax Deed Investing

Georgia uses the tax deed sale system. That means when you buy at a tax sale, you’re buying the actual property—not just the lien—though the original owner still has 12 months to reclaim it by paying you back with a 20% penalty.

This setup makes Georgia an attractive option for investors looking for high returns without too much risk—especially if they do their research.

Important Tax Sale Details for Montgomery County, Georgia

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed
Auction Frequency	First Tuesday of the month (only if properties are available)
Auction Time	10:00 AM ET
Auction Location	Montgomery County Courthouse – 301 S. Richardson St, Mt. Vernon, GA 30445
Redemption Period	12 months (from sale date)
Interest Rate (Penalty)	20% flat penalty
Bid Procedure	Live public auction to the highest bidder
Registration	Required; begins around 9:00 AM with valid ID
Deposit/Payment	Full payment due immediately (cashier’s check or money order)
More Info	Montgomery County Tax Sales Page

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Population: Over 10.9 million residents
• Tax Structure: Georgia is a tax deed state with a 20% redemption penalty—making returns easier to calculate
• Historic Roots: Property taxes in Georgia date back to colonial times
• Nickname: Known as the “Peach State,” Georgia is famous for its agricultural output

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions
Montgomery County and nearby areas offer peaceful small towns, rivers for fishing, local parks, and historical spots.

Transportation Infrastructure
The county is accessible via state roads and is near Vidalia Regional Airport. Larger highways are a short drive away.

Economic Development
Agriculture remains a strong part of the economy, including cotton, peanuts, and poultry. There’s also nearby growth in manufacturing.

Community Appeal
If you’re after quiet country living, Montgomery County offers open land, local events, and a close-knit community feel. It’s a calm place to invest and live.

Why Georgia is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

Georgia gives investors a simple and consistent structure to follow. The 20% penalty, combined with the 12-month redemption period, offers a solid mix of profit and protection.

Low property prices in counties like Montgomery mean you can get started without a huge budget. And with fewer bidders, your chances of landing a deal go up.

Understanding the Montgomery County Auction Process

Here’s how the process works:

1. Arrive around 9:00 AM to register with your ID
2. Review the list of properties posted in advance
3. Auction starts at 10:00 AM at the courthouse
4. Winning bidder must pay immediately by cashier’s check or money order
5. The original owner has 12 months to redeem the property by paying you back plus 20%
6. If the property isn’t redeemed, you can begin foreclosure to gain full ownership

You can find the full redemption law here.

High Returns with Lower Risk

Unlike traditional investments, tax deeds in Georgia give you a flat 20% return if the property is redeemed. If not, you can claim ownership after 12 months.

There are no bidding wars over interest rates—just a straight auction to the highest cash bidder. That keeps it simple.

Open to All Investors

You don’t have to live in Georgia to participate. Out-of-state and international investors are welcome to join the auction.

It’s a great way to start building a U.S. property portfolio even if you don’t live locally.

Due Diligence Matters

Always check the property before bidding. Here’s what you should do:

• Use the county GIS map to confirm the property location and size
• Visit the property or view it online (don’t trespass)
• Check if it has heir ownership issues
• Make sure utilities are available or nearby

Skipping this step could leave you with:

• Landlocked lots
• Properties with unpaid liens
• Legal issues related to shared inheritance

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

When a property doesn’t sell at auction, it may become available over-the-counter.

Advantages of OTC purchases:

• No need to compete with other bidders
• Set penalty structure (20% return if redeemed)
• Easier access for new investors

Ask the Tax Commissioner’s Office about available OTC properties.

Real Estate and Economic Overview

Montgomery County’s real estate market is slow and steady, which is perfect for long-term investors. Key points:

• Affordable rural land and homes
• Good rental potential in areas near Mt. Vernon
• Low property taxes
• Less competition compared to larger counties

FAQs – Montgomery County Tax Deed Sales

Do I need to live in Georgia to invest?
No. The sale is open to anyone, including foreign buyers.

How do I register for the auction?
Show up with a valid ID at 9:00 AM on auction day.

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

Can I go inside the property before the auction?
No. You may only view it from the outside unless it’s vacant land.

What happens after 12 months if the property isn’t redeemed?
You can begin foreclosure to take full ownership.

Useful Links

• Montgomery County Tax Sales Page
• Montgomery County Tax Commissioner’s Office
• Montgomery County Government
• Georgia Property Tax Info
• Georgia Redemption Law
• 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?

If you’re considering Montgomery County, start with our Auction Calendar. Learn the ropes through our free resources, and book a call to make sure your strategy lines up with your investment goals.

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