Investing in Richmond County, Georgia Tax Sales: What You Need to Know

If you’re looking into buying property through tax sales in Georgia, Richmond County—home to Augusta—might be a smart place to start. These tax sales help the county recover unpaid property taxes and give buyers a chance to pick up properties at public auctions.

Here’s everything you need to know about how it works in Richmond County, plus some key tips to help you prepare.

How Tax Sales Work in Richmond County

Richmond County holds in-person public auctions to sell properties with unpaid property taxes. These sales are managed by the Richmond County Tax Commissioner’s Office.

When someone doesn’t pay their property taxes, the county can auction off the property to collect what’s owed. These auctions give investors the chance to buy real estate, sometimes at a much lower price than market value.

When & Where Are Tax Sales Held?

Detail	Information
Type of Sale	Tax Deed Sale
Sale Schedule	First Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM
Location	Augusta-Richmond County Municipal Building, 535 Telfair Street, Augusta, GA 30901
Presale Meeting	9:30 AM
Redemption Period	12 months from date of sale
Interest Rate	20% flat penalty if property is redeemed
Bid Method	Highest bidder wins
Payment Terms	The full amount due immediately after the auction
As-Is Sale	Yes – no warranties on condition or title
Who Can Bid?	Anyone – no residency requirement
Contact Office	706-821-2391
Official Website	Richmond County Tax Office

What Happens After the Sale?

After you win the bid and pay, you’ll receive a tax deed. But the original owner still has 12 months to “redeem” the property. If they do, you’ll get your full payment back plus 20%.

If the owner doesn’t redeem after a year, you can file for full ownership through the courts. Be sure to talk to a lawyer about the quiet title process so you can sell or develop the property legally.

Key Tips for Investors

• Do your research. Always check the title, visit the property if possible, and look for potential issues like liens or code violations.
• Bring full payment. You’ll need to pay your full bid amount right after the auction—no financing or partial payments.
• Understand the risks. These properties are sold “as-is,” with no guarantees about their condition or legal standing.

Interesting Real Estate Facts About Richmond County

• Augusta is a major hub with a strong economy built around healthcare, Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon), and multiple colleges.
• Consistent rental demand thanks to military personnel and students.
• Affordable property prices make Richmond County attractive compared to cities like Atlanta or Savannah.
• Historic homes in downtown Augusta often appeal to investors interested in flipping or short-term rentals.
• Active revitalization efforts are improving neighborhoods and raising property values across the city.

Why Richmond County Is a Good Choice for Tax Deed Investing

High Returns with Manageable Risk

When a property is redeemed, investors receive a 20% penalty on top of their full investment. That’s a much better return than many traditional investments.

Clear Auction Process

Richmond County holds regular tax deed auctions. The rules are straightforward, and everything is handled through the Tax Commissioner’s Office.

Open to All Investors

Anyone can bid—whether you live in Georgia, another state, or even outside the U.S.

What About Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Properties?

Some properties that don’t sell at auction may become available over the counter. These can be purchased directly from the county without bidding. To find out if any OTC properties are available, contact the Richmond County Tax Office.

Pro Tips for Success

• Start small and learn the process before making larger investments.
• Visit properties when possible to get a better understanding of their condition and location.
• Use a real estate attorney or title company to help clear the title if you gain full ownership.
• Be patient—some properties will redeem, and others may require time to go through legal channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attend the auction online?
No. All tax deed sales in Richmond County are held in person.

Do I get the property immediately after I pay?
Not exactly. You receive a tax deed, but the owner still has 12 months to reclaim the property.

What happens if the owner redeems the property?
You’ll get your investment back plus a 20% premium.

Can I claim excess funds from a tax sale?
Only the former property owner or other legally entitled parties can claim any excess funds.

Is this only for local investors?
No. Richmond County tax sales are open to everyone, including out-of-state and international buyers.

Summary: Why Richmond County Is Worth a Look

• Regular, well-managed tax deed sales
• 20% return if the property is redeemed
• Strong rental demand from military and college populations
• Affordable investment opportunities compared to other parts of Georgia
• Growing neighborhoods and long-term value through revitalization efforts

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Richmond County tax sale list here.
• Richmond County Tax Office.
• Richmond County Government website.
• 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?

Check our calendar for upcoming auctions. If you’re looking for guidance or have questions about participating in tax lien sales, don’t hesitate to book a call now and connect with an expert who can help you navigate the process with confidence.  

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