Davidson County, TN Tax Sales: How to Buy Properties at Auction

Davidson County, Tennessee, holds tax sales to recover unpaid property taxes. When property owners fail to pay, the county auctions off these properties to collect the overdue amounts. If you’re looking to bid, you need to understand how the process works.

How Davidson County Tax Sales Work

Davidson County conducts in-person tax auctions at the Metropolitan Davidson County Courthouse. Buyers can bid on tax-delinquent properties and potentially purchase them for the amount owed in taxes, fees, and interest.

Key Details of the Auction Process

1. In-Person Auctions Only – All tax sales take place at the courthouse. Check out our Auction Calendar for scheduled auctions
2. Property Listings – The Nashville Ledger newspaper and the Clerk and Master’s website publish available properties before each auction.
3. Starting Bids – The auction opens at the total amount due, including unpaid taxes, interest, and court fees.
4. Live Bidding – The highest bidder wins, but the court must approve the sale before it is finalized.

How to Participate in Davidson County Tax Sales

1. Check Property Listings

• Look for available properties in the Nashville Ledger and on the Clerk and Master’s website.

• Research tax records, property conditions, and ownership details.

2. Attend the Auction in Person

Auctions take place at the Metropolitan Davidson County Courthouse.

• Arrive early to ensure you complete registration on time.

3. Register to Bid

• Sign up between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM on the day of the auction.

• Bring a valid ID and any required registration documents.

4. Start Bidding

• The live auction format allows bidders to place competitive bids.

• The highest bidder wins, subject to court approval.

5. Pay Immediately After Winning

• Winning bidders must submit full payment by the county’s deadline.

• Payment methods and due dates will be announced at the auction.

6. Wait for Court Approval

• The Chancery Court must confirm all sales before they are final.

• This process can take several weeks.

7. Monitor the Redemption Period

• The original owner can reclaim the property by paying all owed taxes, interest, and fees.

• If the owner redeems, the winning bidder receives a refund.

8. Receive the Tax Deed

• If the property is not redeemed, the winning bidder receives a tax deed.

• The property then transfers to the new owner.

What Happens After Winning a Property?

1. Payment Must Be Made Promptly

• You must pay in full within the county’s required timeframe.

2. The Redemption Period Still Applies

• The original owner has time to pay off the debt and reclaim the property.

3. You May Not Get Immediate Possession

• Buyers must wait for the redemption period to end before taking full control.

4. Legal Action May Be Required

• Some properties require a quiet title action to establish full ownership.

5. Evictions Might Be Necessary

• If the property is occupied, legal action may be needed to remove tenants.

Important Things to Know Before Bidding

1. All Sales Are Final

• Davidson County does not issue refunds after a winning bid.

2. Properties Sell ‘As-Is’

• The county does not guarantee the property’s condition or title status.

3. Some Properties Have Liens

• Unpaid mortgages, utility bills, or other liens may still exist.

• Buyers should research title records before placing a bid.

4. Additional Costs May Apply

• Buyers may need to cover court fees, legal costs, and title-clearing expenses.

5. Research is Essential

• Verify ownership records, property conditions, and possible title issues before bidding.

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• Why Tennessee Tax Sales Are a Smart Investment Choice
• Let’s talk about redeemable tax deeds and how you can profit from them!
• Discover Tax Deeds and how you can find property for as little as $50! 

Get Ready for the Next Auction

Stay ahead of the competition—check our auction calendar for upcoming sales and start preparing now. Need expert guidance? Book a call with us today. Don’t forget to explore our free resources for insider tips on making profitable investments.

Opportunities won’t wait—take the first step today!

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