What You Need to Know Before Bidding at a White County Georgia Tax Sale

If you’re looking to invest in real estate through property tax sales, White County, Georgia is worth your attention. Nestled in the scenic foothills of the North Georgia mountains, it offers both charm and opportunity—especially for those interested in tax deed investing.

Let’s break down how it works, what to watch out for, and how to get started the right way.

Brief Overview of Georgia’s Tax Deed System

Georgia operates under a redeemable tax deed system. That means when you win a tax sale, you don’t get full ownership right away. Instead, the county gives you a tax deed, and the property owner has one year and one day to pay off the delinquent taxes, plus a 20% premium.

If they don’t redeem during that time, you can file for full ownership through a process called quiet title.

This system offers strong returns with less risk than many traditional real estate investments.

Important Tax Sale Details for White County

Tax Sale Type	Redeemable Tax Deed
Typical Sale Date	First Tuesday of the month (as needed)
Redemption Period	One year and one day
Interest Rate/Premium	20% flat fee
Bid Procedure	Public outcry, highest bidder wins
Deposit	Full payment after auction via cashier’s check or money order

Location of Auction:
White County Courthouse
59 South Main Street, Cleveland, GA 30528

• Auction Time: 10:00 AM ET
• Registration Opens: 9:00 AM ET
• Valid ID required
• Some bidders may be asked to sign an affidavit confirming they are not acting for the owner

To check for updates, visit the White County Tax Commissioner’s page.

Fun Facts About Georgia

• Georgia is the 8th most populous state in the U.S. with over 11 million residents.
• The state has a flat 20% premium on redeemed tax deeds—no matter how quickly they’re redeemed.
• Helen, GA, located in White County, is one of the most visited small towns in Georgia, drawing nearly 3 million visitors annually.

Attractions and Economic Highlights

Popular Attractions

• Helen, GA – A Bavarian-themed mountain town with year-round tourism
• Unicoi State Park and Anna Ruby Falls
• Chattahoochee National Forest
• Appalachian Trail access

Transportation Infrastructure

• Accessible via U.S. Highway 129 and State Route 75
• Nearest major airport: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (~90 minutes away)
• No passenger rail but roads are well maintained

Economic Development

• Tourism, agriculture, and construction are key drivers
• Growth in short-term rentals and rural real estate markets
• Attractive for remote workers and retirees

Community Appeal

• Outdoor activities like tubing, hiking, and fishing
• Small-town feel with increasing real estate demand
• Vacation home market with long-term potential

Why Georgia Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

What Makes Georgia Tax Deeds a Smart Investment?

• Guaranteed 20% return if the property is redeemed
• Opportunity to gain full ownership of land or buildings
• Market driven by tourism and steady population growth
• Open to local and international investors

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales in White County

How It Works

1. Register at 9:00 AM on auction day with valid ID
2. Auction starts at 10:00 AM on the courthouse steps
3. Highest bidder wins via public outcry
4. Immediate payment required via cashier’s check or money order
5. You receive a Sheriff’s tax deed
6. Redemption window opens for one year and one day

Maximum Potential Returns

• Earn 20% flat if redeemed
• If not redeemed, you can file for quiet title and take full ownership

Open to All Investors

• Georgia allows anyone, including foreign investors, to participate
• You must attend in person or send a representative

Understanding the White County Tax Sale Process

Expected Returns

• 20% premium paid upon redemption—no pro-rating
• If not redeemed, you gain full ownership and may sell, rent, or develop

Foreign Investor Participation

• International investors can buy in Georgia
• Same rules and requirements as U.S. citizens

Importance of Due Diligence in Georgia Tax Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Entails

• Research property condition and location
• Check for legal access and easements
• Use Georgia GSCCCA to search deed history and liens
• Visit the property when possible

Risks of Skipping Research

• Landlocked properties
• Delays with quiet title process
• Legal issues if occupants remain on-site

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Tax Deeds in Georgia

How to Buy OTC Deeds

• Contact the White County Tax Commissioner
• Ask for a list of properties not sold at auction
• Pay the required amount—no bidding

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No bidding competition
• Same 20% return if redeemed
• Good way to start for beginners

Why Georgia Is a Top Choice for Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

• Steady growth in real estate and tourism
• Low property tax rates
• High rate of return on tax sales

Real Estate Market Overview

• White County real estate is driven by tourism and lifestyle buyers
• Steady demand for cabins, vacation homes, and buildable lots
• Increased interest from remote workers and retirees

Conclusion: Why Invest in White County, Georgia?

White County’s tax sales offer a real chance to profit, whether through redemption premiums or long-term ownership. Between the 20% return, strong vacation market, and low entry costs, it’s a strong choice for new and experienced investors.

Just remember—do your research, follow the rules, and get there early on sale day.

Pro Tips

• Use GIS tools to look at terrain before bidding—mountain lots can be steep
• Look for properties near Helen or Unicoi for vacation rental potential
• Avoid properties without road access or visible easements
• Bring multiple cashier’s checks in different amounts for bidding flexibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Georgia to bid?
No, anyone can participate as long as you register in person on auction day.

Can I inspect the property before the auction?
You can view it from the road, but most are sold “as-is” without formal inspection.

What happens if the owner redeems the property?
You get your investment back plus 20%—no matter how soon it happens.

What if no one redeems the property?
You can file a quiet title action to gain full ownership.

Is financing allowed?
No. You must pay in full on auction day with certified funds.

Useful Links

• White County Tax Commissioner
• Delinquent Tax Sale Info
• Georgia GSCCCA – Deeds and Liens
• White County Government
• 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?

Looking for tax-sale opportunities in White County? Visit our Auction Calendar to view upcoming properties. Leverage our free resources to get informed, and if you want expert guidance, book a call with one of our specialists.

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About Dustin Hahn

Dustin Hahn is a Tax Lien & Deed investor with over 22 years of experience and hundreds of deals under his belt. He created Tax Lien School.com to help you buy Tax Deeds up to 90% off mortgage free and earn up to 36% ROI with Tax Liens. This site was voted the “Most Useful Resource” for new investors. Dustin’s YouTube Channel is the #1 Channel on Tax Liens & Deeds with over 98,000 Subscribers and 3600 videos to help you start. “The Best Time To Start Real Estate Investing Was 20 Years Ago, The Second Best Time Is TODAY!”

20+yrs

5–10deals/mo

2009TLS founded