Union County Tax Deeds Made Easy for Everyday Property Buyers

Looking into tax deed investing in Union County, Georgia? This area in North Georgia offers a solid entry point for buyers looking to get involved in property investment through tax sales. Whether you’re local or coming from out of state, understanding how tax sales work here is key to making smart moves.

This guide walks you through the full process, shows where to find reliable updates, and explains why Union County is a good place for both new and experienced investors.

Brief Overview of Tax Lien/Deed Investing in Georgia

Georgia uses a redeemable tax deed system. When you win a bid at a tax sale, the original property owner has 1 year and 1 day to pay you back, including a 20% penalty. If they don’t, you can start the legal process to take full ownership through a quiet title action.

Tax deed investing in Georgia often offers high returns with manageable risk, especially if you research the property ahead of time.

Important Union County Tax Sale Details

Detail	Information
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Auction Frequency	First Tuesday of select months (when enough delinquent properties exist)
Redemption Period	1 year + 1 day from the date of the sale
Penalty to Investor	20% of the purchase amount if the property is redeemed
Bid Procedure	Public outcry – highest bid wins
Minimum Bid	Taxes owed + legal and advertising costs
Auction Time	Starts at 10:00 AM ET; registration begins at 9:00 AM
Auction Location	Union County Courthouse in Blairsville
Payment Terms	Full payment due within 1 hour (cash or certified funds only)
Deed Transfer	Sheriff’s Deed mailed after payment confirmation
Info Source	Union County Tax Commissioner’s Office
Sale Notices	North Georgia News and GSCCCA site

Fun Facts About Georgia and Union County

• Union County’s Population: About 25,000
• Blairsville, the county seat, is a well-known retirement and vacation destination in the mountains.
• Georgia’s redeemable deed system has been around for decades and is designed to balance investor opportunity with homeowner rights.
• Georgia requires investors to wait a full year and a day before trying to take ownership—this gives time for redemption and legal clarity.

Attractions and Economic Highlights in Union County

Popular Attractions

• Vogel State Park
• Appalachian Trail trailheads
• Lake Nottely
• Seasonal mountain festivals and craft fairs

Transportation

• Access via U.S. Highway 76 and scenic state routes
• About a 2-hour drive from Atlanta
• Closest airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International

Economic Growth Areas

• Short-term rental market (cabins, vacation homes)
• Health services and senior care
• Tourism and eco-tourism
• Custom home building and construction

Lifestyle and Community

• Excellent for hiking, boating, and camping
• Peaceful small-town living with modern amenities
• Active retirement and remote work community
• Family-friendly and welcoming for newcomers

Why Georgia (and Union County) Is Great for Tax Deed Investors

Georgia makes tax deed investing appealing thanks to:

• A guaranteed 20% penalty return on redeemed properties
• Affordable rural land prices in counties like Union
• A redemption process that limits long legal battles
• Access to properties with long-term rental or appreciation potential

In Union County, investors are drawn to mountain cabins, large plots of land, and vacation properties that offer value both now and in the future.

How the Auction Works in Union County

1. Find Sale Notices: Check Union County’s website or GSCCCA.
2. Register On-Site: Arrive at the courthouse by 9:00 AM with valid ID. Some bidders may need to sign a sworn affidavit.
3. Auction Begins at 10:00 AM: Held on the courthouse steps. Highest bidder wins.
4. Pay Immediately: Full payment due within 1 hour using cash or certified funds.
5. Get the Sheriff’s Deed: Mailed after the sale once payment is processed.

Expected Returns and Redemption

• 20% penalty added the moment the property is redeemed.
• If not redeemed within 1 year + 1 day, investors can begin quiet title action to take full ownership.
• Higher returns possible if the redemption takes time, as interest may increase.

Can Foreign Investors Participate?

Yes. Georgia law does not restrict out-of-state or international investors. Just note that you must be present at the sale to register and bid—there’s no online option in Union County.

This makes Union County one of Georgia’s open and accessible opportunities for investors worldwide.

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

When a property doesn’t sell at auction, it may become available over the counter. This allows buyers to purchase it directly without bidding.

Benefits of OTC Tax Deeds:

• No competition
• Same 20% return if redeemed
• More time for research before purchase

Check availability by contacting the Union County Tax Commissioner’s office.

Pro Tips for Union County Tax Sales

• Drive by the property before bidding.
• Check road access—some mountain lots don’t have maintained roads.
• Ask about broadband if you plan to resell or rent to remote workers.
• Watch for HOA restrictions in subdivisions.
• Review the GSCCCA site for legal history or liens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get the property right away after the auction?
No. The owner has 1 year and 1 day to redeem the property.

What happens if the owner redeems it?
You get your full bid back plus 20%.

Can I bid online?
No. Auctions in Union County are in person only.

What is a quiet title?
A court process that gives you full legal ownership if the property wasn’t redeemed.

Are there risks?
Yes. Properties may have access issues or other problems. Always do your research.

Why Union County Is a Smart Investment Choice

Union County offers:

• Affordable land and homes
• Solid tourism-driven rental market
• 20% penalty returns on redemptions
• Lower competition compared to big cities
• Opportunities for both short-term profit and long-term value

For investors looking for reliable returns and real property potential, Union County is a strong option.

Useful Links

• Union County Tax Commissioner
• Delinquent Tax Listings
• Georgia GSCCCA Tax Deed Listings
• Union 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?

Union County has opportunities worth exploring. Check out the Auction Calendar and browse our free resources. If you want advice tailored to your goals, book a call with our investment support team today

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