Unlock Property Deals in Stewart County Through Monthly Tax Sales

Looking to invest in Georgia’s tax sales? Stewart County might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Located in the southwestern part of the state, this county offers tax deed sales with manageable risk and a good chance for long-term returns. Whether you’re local or out of state, the public auction process is open to everyone. Here’s a complete breakdown to help you understand how it all works.

Brief Overview of Georgia’s Tax Deed Investing

In Georgia, counties hold tax deed sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When a property owner falls behind, the county auctions off the property. Investors can purchase the deed, and the previous owner has one year and one day to redeem it by paying what’s owed—plus interest.

If the owner doesn’t redeem in time, the investor can move forward with full ownership through a legal process called barment or foreclosure.

Important Tax Sale Details for Stewart County, Georgia

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Tax Deed (Redeemable Deed)
Auction Date	First Tuesday of the month (when scheduled)
Auction Time	10:00 AM Eastern Time
Location	Stewart County Courthouse, 14935 GA Hwy 520, Lumpkin, GA 31815
Redemption Period	1 year and 1 day
Interest Rate on Redemption	20% minimum (flat rate)
Bid Procedure	In-person auction, bidding starts at taxes owed
Registration	Required in person before auction starts
Deposit Requirement	No deposit required, but full payment is due immediately via certified funds

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Population: Over 11 million residents statewide
• Stewart County Population: Around 5,300
• Real Estate: Stewart County is one of the most affordable markets in Georgia
• History: Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system, meaning you don’t get full ownership right away
• State Law: Redemption gives the investor a guaranteed 20% return—even if redeemed the next day

Local Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Providence Canyon State Park (Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon”)
• Local historic sites and public parks

Transportation

• Major access via Georgia Highway 520
• Close to cities like Columbus, offering airport and bus services

Economic Growth

• Focus on agriculture, timber, and outdoor recreation
• Land is often used for farming, hunting, or future development

Community Living

• Enjoy quiet rural living
• Fishing, hunting, and hiking are part of everyday life
• Close enough to urban areas for convenience

Why Georgia is Great for Tax Deed Investing

Georgia offers strong returns with low entry costs. Investors get a flat 20% interest if the property is redeemed. If it’s not redeemed, you can apply for full ownership.

What Makes Georgia Tax Deeds a Smart Investment?

High Returns with Low Risk

Georgia guarantees a 20% return on redeemed tax deeds. That’s higher than many savings or stock market options with far less volatility.

The Auction Process

Auctions are held on the courthouse steps. Bidding starts at the back taxes owed. You must pay immediately if you win—bring a cashier’s check or certified funds.

Maximum Returns

If the property is not redeemed, you can file for full ownership. Some parcels may be worth much more than your purchase price.

Open to All Investors

Whether you’re from Georgia, another state, or even overseas, you can take part in the Stewart County tax deed auctions.

Understanding the Tax Deed Sale Process in Stewart County

How the Auction Works

1. Arrive early at the courthouse and register
2. Bring ID and payment
3. Bidding starts at the tax amount
4. Highest bidder wins the deed
5. Wait out the 1-year-and-1-day redemption period
6. If not redeemed, you can start foreclosure

Expected Returns

• 20% return if redeemed
• Full ownership if not redeemed
• Some lots have value beyond the sale price, especially for timber or lake access

Foreign Investor Participation

Investors from outside the U.S. are allowed to participate, though you should understand legal and tax filing requirements.

Importance of Doing Your Homework

What Due Diligence Means

• Check maps and tax records
• Visit the property if possible
• Use tools like GIS to verify access and land type
• Ask about legal issues like zoning or easements

What Happens if You Skip Due Diligence

• You may buy land with no road access
• You could get stuck with liens or unusable land
• Some properties are swampy or landlocked

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) in Georgia

Some properties don’t sell at auction. These are available “over the counter.”

How to Purchase OTC

• Contact the Tax Commissioner
• Ask if there are OTC properties still available
• Pay the past-due tax and claim the deed

Benefits of OTC

• No competition
• Known price
• Still comes with the same 1-year redemption period and 20% interest

Why Stewart County is a Great Choice for Investors

Economic and Tax Benefits

• Low property taxes
• No inheritance tax in Georgia
• Simple property laws and public sale system

Real Estate Market Insight

• Very low prices for land and homes
• Lake Eufaula draws tourists and second-home buyers
• Agricultural land is in demand

Conclusion: Is Stewart County a Good Investment?

Yes. Stewart County offers low-cost entry, a guaranteed 20% return if redeemed, and the chance for full ownership. It’s open to everyone and perfect for buyers who want to start small and scale up over time.

Pro Tips

• Use satellite maps to review terrain and roads
• Visit the area before buying
• Check if the property has utility access
• Look into timber or hunting rights
• Always bring certified funds on auction day

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to live in Georgia to invest?
No. Anyone can invest, even if you’re from another state or country.

How much do I need to get started?
Some parcels start under $2,000. Bring enough for payment in full via certified funds.

Can I go see the land before I bid?
Yes. It’s highly recommended. Just don’t trespass on occupied property.

What happens if the owner pays back the taxes?
You get your money back plus 20% interest.

How do I know what’s available for auction?
Check the Georgia Public Notice website or Stewart County’s tax sale page.

Useful Links

• Stewart County Tax Sales
• Stewart County Government Website
• Treasurer’s Office Contact
• Georgia Public Notices
• Georgia Department of Revenue
• 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

Thinking about Stewart County? Our Auction Calendar shows what’s coming. Our free resources help you learn the process, and if you’d like a personal guide, go ahead and book a call with one of our experts.

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