Everything You Need to Know About Buying Tax Delinquent Property in Sumter County

If you’re looking to invest in property through tax sales in Georgia, Sumter County might be a great place to start. Whether you’re just learning or already have experience, this guide breaks everything down in plain English.

Overview of Georgia Tax Sales

Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system. This means you buy the deed to a property at auction, but the original owner still has one year and one day to pay you back—plus at least 20% interest. If they don’t, you can move forward with a quiet title action to take full ownership.

This type of investment offers high returns with lower risk, especially in smaller counties like Sumter where there’s less competition.

Important Details for Tax Sales in Sumter County

Item	Details
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Auction Schedule	1st Tuesday in April (mobile homes), July (city parcels), and October (county parcels)
Auction Time	Between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM Eastern Time
Auction Location	Courthouse steps at 500 W. Lamar Street, Americus, GA 31709
Registration	In-person on auction day, starts before 10:00 AM
Bid Process	Public auction, highest bidder wins
Payment	Cash or cashier’s check only, due within 1 hour after auction
Redemption Period	1 year and 1 day (per Georgia law O.C.G.A. § 48-4-40)
Interest Rate	Minimum 20% if redeemed
Quiet Title Needed?	Yes, for full ownership
Contact Info	Sumter County Tax Commissioner – (229) 928-4530
Auction Info	Tax Sale Page
Legal Ads	Published in Americus Times-Recorder and on the GSCCCA website

Why Georgia Is Popular for Tax Deed Investing

• 20% minimum interest rate
• Low property prices
• Less competition in rural areas
• Open to all investors, including international buyers
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) deals available for unsold properties

Interesting Facts About Georgia

• Georgia has 159 counties—only Texas has more.
• Property taxes in Georgia are below the national average.
• The state’s agricultural industry is one of the largest in the country.
• Georgia law gives delinquent property owners one year and one day to redeem their property.

Why Sumter County Is a Smart Choice

Attractions

• Historic downtown Americus
• Andersonville National Historic Site
• Jimmy Carter National Historical Park (in nearby Plains)

Transportation

• Connected by U.S. Highway 280
• Regional airport in Americus; major airports in Columbus and Atlanta
• Accessible roads and rail service

Economy

• Strong agriculture industry
• Local employers include Georgia Southwestern State University and Phoebe Sumter Medical Center
• Affordable housing attracts long-term renters

Lifestyle

• Peaceful, rural areas perfect for homesteads or land investments
• Charming neighborhoods and historical homes
• Ongoing community housing efforts from nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity

How Tax Sales Work in Sumter County

1. Check Listings – Properties are advertised 4 weeks before the sale in the local paper and on the GSCCCA site.
2. Register to Bid – Show up early on auction day with ID and cashier’s check.
3. Bid Live – The auction is held in-person, and bidding starts at the courthouse steps.
4. Pay Fast – If you win, pay in full (cash or cashier’s check) within one hour.
5. Get the Deed – A Sheriff’s Deed will be mailed to you after processing.
6. Wait the Redemption Period – Owners have 1 year and 1 day to redeem.
7. File Quiet Title – If the property isn’t redeemed, you can start the quiet title process to take ownership.

High Returns, Low Risk

Investing in Georgia tax deeds offers:

• Minimum 20% return if the property is redeemed
• Chance to own land or buildings at a discount
• Less competition compared to larger metro areas

These returns are higher than most savings accounts or CDs and come with the added benefit of potential property ownership.

Can Anyone Invest?

Yes, both out-of-state and international investors can buy property in Sumter County. You don’t need to live in Georgia to participate—you just have to show up in person (or send someone on your behalf) to register and bid.

Do Your Research First

Before you bid, make sure you:

• Visit the property if possible (don’t enter—just view from outside)
• Research the zoning and past due utility bills
• Check for liens or environmental issues
• Know your costs (quiet title fees, taxes, insurance)

Skipping due diligence could mean buying a property that’s unbuildable or already has major problems.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options

If a property doesn’t sell at the auction, it may become available over the counter. You’ll need to contact the Tax Commissioner’s Office to check on OTC availability.

Benefits of OTC purchases:

• Fixed price (no bidding)
• Less competition
• Time to research before buying

Local Property Market in Sumter County

• Americus is the largest city and offers stable rental demand.
• Georgia Southwestern State University and Phoebe Sumter Medical Center support steady housing needs.
• Historic homes and rural land are both available at lower prices than other Georgia counties.
• Habitat for Humanity was founded in Americus and continues to impact local development.

Pro Tips for Bidding

• Bring extra cashier’s checks in case you want to bid on more than one property.
• Homes near universities and hospitals usually rent well.
• Mobile homes in April auctions may be easier entry points.
• Visit the courthouse area before auction day to familiarize yourself with the process.
• Avoid properties with unclear legal descriptions or missing street access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to live in Georgia to invest?
No, anyone can invest, even if you live out-of-state or abroad.

Can I bid online?
No, Sumter County requires in-person registration and bidding.

How do I know if a property is worth bidding on?
Visit the property and research its tax and legal status through the Tax Commissioner and GSCCCA.

What happens if the owner redeems the property?
You’ll receive your full bid amount back, plus at least 20% interest.

When can I take full ownership?
After the 1-year and 1-day redemption period, if the owner hasn’t redeemed, you can begin the quiet title process.

Useful Links

• Sumter County Tax Sale Page
• Sumter County Tax Commissioner
• Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Authority (GSCCCA)
• Sumter County Main 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?

Sumter County tax-sale properties are available for review in our Auction Calendar. Explore upcoming listings and use our free resources to understand what to expect. If you’d like help building your strategy or reviewing your options, book a call and talk to an expert.

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