Horry County, South Carolina Redeemable Tax Deed Auction Guide

Introduction to Horry County and This Guide

Horry County sits on the northeastern coast of South Carolina and includes the famous Myrtle Beach resort area. The county has grown quickly and now has about 369,000 residents with a median household income near $64,600. Its economy is tied to tourism, retail, and health services. This article explains how Horry County conducts its annual tax deed sale, what investors can expect, and why the county’s blend of growth and tourism makes it appealing for tax deed investing.

Brief Overview of Horry County’s Tax Deed Investing

South Carolina uses a redeemable tax deed process rather than tax lien certificates. Horry County does not issue tax lien certificates, meaning investors bid on the full deed but the owner can redeem the property by paying back taxes plus interest. The annual auction is an open, in-person sale where bidders compete for deeds to delinquent properties. Investors receive a deed if the property is not redeemed within the redemption period. This guide breaks down the key details for success.

Important Details

Item	Summary
Tax Sale Type	Redeemable tax deed — the county sells the deed and no tax lien certificates are issued.
Typical Sale Date	Usually the first Tuesday in December; the county advertises the exact date in November. The 2025 sale is scheduled for 9 a.m. on December 2.
Redemption Period	One year from the date of sale; the forfeited land commission notes a one-year-and-one-day period for properties it holds.
Interest Rate	If the property is redeemed, bidders earn 3% the first quarter, 6% the second, 9% the third, and 12% the final quarter. Interest is capped at the opening bid.
Bid Procedure	Open bidding starts at the amount of all delinquent taxes, penalties, and costs plus current year taxes.
Deposit/Fees	A $25 bidder registration fee is required. A $450 title search and deed preparation fee is added to each winning bid.
Registration Period	Registration opens several weeks before the sale. Online registration usually closes about ten days before the auction, and in-person registration ends the day before the sale.
Auction Time	The auction typically starts at 9 a.m. Eastern Time at the Horry County Government & Judicial Building, 1301 Second Avenue, Conway.

Fun Facts About Horry County

• Fast-growing population of over 369,000 residents with more than 3% annual growth.
  
• Pro-business climate with low taxes, affordable utilities, and a cost of living about 7% below the national average.
  
• Educational hub with Coastal Carolina University and Horry-Georgetown Technical College.
  
• Tourism powerhouse — Myrtle Beach welcomes about 18 million visitors every year, supporting thousands of jobs.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

Attractions: Myrtle Beach is South Carolina’s number-one tourist destination. Popular entertainment includes the Carolina Opry, Pirates’ Voyage, and the Carolina Country Music Festival. Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer beaches, trails, and bird-watching.

Transportation: Myrtle Beach International Airport and two regional airports serve the area. Major highways connect the county to Interstate 95 less than 50 miles away.

Economy: Main industries include accommodation and food services, retail trade, and health care. The county encourages business with competitive tax and cost structures.

Community: The mild climate, outdoor recreation, and coastal setting make Horry County appealing for both retirees and young families.

Why Horry County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

• Growing market with expanding population and a strong tourism base.
  
• High returns with low risk — redeemable deeds pay interest of 3% to 12% depending on redemption timing.
  
• Pro-business environment that supports steady property values.
  
• Open to out-of-state and international investors.
  
• Easy access to research tools such as GIS maps and property lists.
  

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales

How the Auction Works

Advertisement: Delinquent properties are advertised for three consecutive Thursdays before the sale.

Registration: Bidders must register and pay a $25 fee. Online registration closes roughly a week and a half before the sale, and in-person registration ends the day before.

Opening Bid: Bidding begins at the total amount of taxes, penalties, costs, and current year taxes.

Bidding: The auction is held in person. Bidders raise numbered cards, and properties are called in alphabetical order.

Payment: Winners must pay in full with cash or certified funds before leaving the sale. Personal checks and wire transfers are not accepted. A $450 title search and deed preparation fee applies per property.

Default: Failure to pay results in bid cancellation and possible penalties of up to $500.

Redemption Period: The owner, mortgage holder, or other party may redeem within twelve months by paying taxes plus 3%–12% interest.

Ownership Rights: During the redemption period, bidders cannot enter or alter the property. If not redeemed, a tax deed is issued after the period ends.

Research: Properties are sold “as is,” with no warranties. Buyers should use county GIS and property tools for due diligence.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns

Investors can earn between 3% and 12% interest depending on when the owner redeems. The rate is fixed by law and based on quarters of the redemption year. Early redemptions yield lower returns, while late redemptions can reach the maximum 12%. If no redemption occurs, the investor receives full ownership and can sell or rent the property.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Horry County welcomes all investors regardless of residency or nationality. Anyone with valid ID who can register and pay can participate. Foreign investors may need a U.S. taxpayer ID for reporting purposes and should prepare certified funds for payment.

Importance of Due Diligence in Horry County Tax Deed Investing

Investors must research each property thoroughly. The county sells property as is and does not guarantee clear title.

What Due Diligence Entails

Inspect the property from the street, verify zoning and restrictions, check for code violations, and perform a title search using public records or a professional service. Compare recent sales to estimate value.

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping research may reveal liens, contamination, or landlocked parcels after purchase. Some liens survive the sale. Always budget for a quiet title action before resale.

Buying Over-the-Counter (OTC) Deeds in Horry County

Properties not sold at auction go to the Forfeited Land Commission (FLC), which sells them later.

How to Purchase OTC Deeds

Submit a sealed bid to the FLC using their bid form. The minimum bid includes taxes, penalties, and a 15% administrative fee. Payment must be in certified funds within one week of approval.

Benefits of OTC Purchases

• No competition from other bidders.
  
• Fixed pricing with clear costs upfront.
  
• Opportunity to find discounted properties.
  
• Flexible submission — bids can be made year-round.
  

Why Horry County Is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

The county offers low taxes and utility costs. Tourism brings millions of visitors and consistent revenue. Easy access via airports and highways adds convenience. The low cost of living draws both workers and retirees.

Real Estate Market Overview

Housing demand is strong, with rising property values driven by tourism and new residents. Investors can benefit from growth, steady rental markets, and appreciation over time.

Conclusion

Horry County’s redeemable tax deed sale offers investors a chance for steady, predictable returns. The auction occurs annually in early December. A twelve-month redemption period gives owners time to repay, after which investors may receive the deed. With careful research and preparation, the county’s tax sales can be a profitable addition to any portfolio.

Pro Tips

• Register early — online registration closes well before the sale.
  
• Bring certified funds — personal checks are not accepted.
  
• Budget for title work and legal fees.
  
• Respect the redemption period and owner’s rights.
  
• Use the county’s GIS tools to verify property details.
  

FAQs

Useful Links

• How to Profit from South Carolina’s Redeemable Deeds
• Redeemable Tax Deeds: Unlocking the Potential for Profit
• Monster Profits: How to Cash In on Redeemable Tax Deeds!
• The Ultimate Guide to Tax Deeds: What You Need to Know
• Tax Deed Investing 101: How to Buy Property for Just $50!

Need a Hand?

If you’re new to tax deed investing or want expert guidance, book a call with a professional familiar with South Carolina tax sales. Use the free resources, property lists, and Auction Calendar to get started and learn more today.

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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