Georgia’s Hidden Property Deals Start in Murray County

If you’re thinking about investing in tax deed sales in Georgia, Murray County is worth a closer look. Located in North Georgia, this area offers a chance to buy tax-delinquent properties at public auction—sometimes for less than market value. Here’s how it works, what to expect, and why this might be a smart move for your portfolio.

Overview of Tax Deed Investing in Georgia

In Georgia, counties sell tax-delinquent properties through tax deed sales. This means if a property owner doesn’t pay their property taxes, the county can auction off the property. The winning bidder gets a tax deed and must wait 12 months to see if the owner pays the taxes back (called “redeeming” the property). If they don’t, the investor can begin the foreclosure process to take full ownership.

Unlike states that use tax liens, Georgia’s process gives investors a better chance at ending up with the actual property.

Important Details for Murray County Tax Sales

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deeds
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of each month
Auction Time	10:00 AM ET
Redemption Period	12 months (1 year)
Interest Rate on Redemption	20% minimum (set by Georgia law)
Bid Procedure	Live, in-person auction at the courthouse
Registration	Same-day registration required with photo ID
Payment Requirements	Full payment due after auction (cashier’s check or certified funds)
Deposit	No deposit required
Auction Location	Murray County Courthouse in Chatsworth
Tax Sale Notices	Published in Chatsworth Times
Official Tax Sale Page	Murray County Tax Sales
Contact Info	Tax Commissioner’s Office Phone: 706-695-2113 Email: [email protected]

What Makes Murray County a Good Place to Invest

Murray County is located in the Appalachian foothills, offering beautiful views, affordable land, and a relaxed lifestyle. Homes near Chatsworth, the county seat, are close to schools, businesses, and parks—making them good rental options or resale properties after foreclosure.

Properties close to Carters Lake or Fort Mountain State Park tend to attract long-term buyers and renters, especially people looking to move out of city life.

How the Tax Sale Works in Murray County

• Sales are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM
• Bidders must register in person with valid photo ID
• You’ll sign a form saying you’re not bidding on behalf of the original property owner
• Bidding starts at the amount of unpaid taxes and fees
• The highest bidder wins and must pay immediately with certified funds
• The buyer receives a tax deed, but not a clear title
• The owner has 12 months to redeem the property by paying what’s owed plus 20% interest
• If the property is not redeemed, the buyer can start the quiet title process to get full ownership

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Georgia has over 11 million residents
• It’s one of the few states still using tax deed sales with a redemption period
• The 20% return is guaranteed by law if the property is redeemed
• Property taxes in Georgia help fund public services like schools and law enforcement
• Georgia’s real estate market is growing, especially in smaller towns and rural areas

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Fort Mountain State Park – popular for hiking, biking, and camping
• Carters Lake – great for fishing, boating, and cabins
• Historic downtown Chatsworth – known for community events and local shops

Transportation Infrastructure

• Connected by U.S. Highway 411 and near I-75
• Closest airports: Chattanooga (45 mins) and Atlanta (90 mins)

Economic Development

• Local economy includes textiles, agriculture, tourism, and some light manufacturing
• Remote work has brought more residents to the area since 2020

Community Appeal

• Affordable homes and land attract retirees and families
• Lots of outdoor activities and public land access
• Ideal for people seeking privacy, space, and a slower pace

Why Georgia Tax Deed Sales Are a Smart Investment

High Returns with Lower Risk

When a property is redeemed, the investor gets at least 20% interest—even if the owner redeems it just a day later. If it’s not redeemed, you could own a property for a fraction of its value. Either way, that’s a solid return.

Simple Auction Process

The Murray County tax deed auction is straightforward:

• Show up, register, and bid
• Pay if you win
• Wait 12 months
• If not redeemed, start foreclosure and possibly take full ownership

Maximum Potential Returns

Georgia law sets the minimum return at 20%, but if the owner waits until the last minute to redeem, the effective annual return could be even higher. You also avoid ongoing competition from institutional investors in big cities.

Open to All Investors

Georgia allows out-of-state and international investors to participate. You just need to be there in person with ID and funds.

Understanding the Murray County Auction Process

1. Check listings in Chatsworth Times or the official tax sale page
2. Do your own research on the property
3. Arrive at the courthouse by 9:30 AM on sale day
4. Register with your ID
5. Bid live at 10:00 AM
6. Pay in full if you win
7. File the tax deed and wait for the redemption period

The Role of Due Diligence

What You Should Check Before You Bid

• Property location and road access
• Condition of the property from the outside
• Liens, code violations, or unpaid utility bills
• Whether it’s in a flood zone or has zoning restrictions

Why It Matters

• Some properties may have unpaid fines
• Others may have no road access or clear title
• If you skip this step, you could end up with land you can’t use or sell

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties

How It Works

If a property isn’t sold at auction, it may be available over the counter through the Tax Commissioner’s Office. You can request a list and buy directly—no bidding required.

Benefits

• No competition
• Set prices
• More time to research before buying

Why Georgia Remains a Top Pick for Investors

Economic and Tax Perks

Georgia has a business-friendly climate, low property taxes, and lots of areas with affordable land.

Real Estate Trends

Rural and small-town areas are seeing more buyers looking for space, privacy, or investment land. Murray County fits that bill.

Conclusion

Murray County offers a great entry point for investors wanting to take part in Georgia’s tax deed market. Between low competition, guaranteed interest, and affordable property, this could be the start of something big—if you do your due diligence.

Pro Tips

• Always verify property boundaries before you bid
• Budget extra for legal fees (quiet title, etc.)
• Start small with one or two properties
• Avoid bidding wars—set a budget and stick to it

FAQs

Q: Can I register online?
A: No, registration is done in person on the morning of the auction.

Q: Do I get clear title after I buy?
A: No. You get a tax deed, but you may need to file a quiet title action.

Q: How do I find out what properties are being sold?
A: Check Murray County’s tax sale page or the Chatsworth Times.

Q: Can I buy land if I live outside the U.S.?
A: Yes, Georgia allows foreign investors to participate.

Useful Links

• Murray County Tax Sales
• Murray County Website
• Georgia Tax Sale 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!!

Call to Action

Murray County offers tax-sale properties you can’t afford to miss. Explore the Auction Calendar and use our free resources to guide your next move. Booking a call will get you the expert support you need.

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