Johnson County, TN Tax Sales: Your Simple Guide to Buying Properties at Auction

Looking for affordable real estate opportunities in Tennessee? Johnson County offers in-person tax sales where investors can bid on properties with unpaid taxes. If you’re hoping to grab land or homes below market value, understanding this process is key.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from registration to redemption—and gives you the tools to participate confidently.

How Tax Sales Work in Johnson County

When property owners fail to pay their taxes, Johnson County holds public auctions to recover the debt. These sales are conducted by the Chancery Court and typically happen inside the courthouse.

You’ll need to attend in person, bid on the property, and pay in full if you win. But remember: there’s a one-year redemption period. This means the original owner can still reclaim the property by paying all past-due taxes and fees.

Steps to Buy at a Johnson County Tax Sale

1. Review Available Properties
Check the Chancery Court’s auction listings and local newspaper notices about a month before the sale.

2. Show Up on Auction Day
Arrive early at the courthouse with a valid ID. Registration starts around 8:00 AM and bidding begins at 9:00 AM.

3. Register to Bid
There’s no online registration. Sign in on-site before the auction starts and receive your bidder number.

4. Start Bidding
Auctions are public outcry, and the highest bidder wins. The sale starts at the amount owed on each property.

5. Pay in Full Immediately
You must pay in full on auction day using a cashier’s check, money order, or cash. No personal checks.

6. Wait for Court Confirmation
The Chancery Court must approve the sale before anything is final.

7. One-Year Redemption Period
If the original owner pays back what they owe within 12 months, they get the property back—and you get a refund.

8. Receive the Deed If Not Redeemed
If the property is not redeemed, you’ll receive a tax deed and can move forward with ownership.

Key Auction Information

Detail	Description
Sale Type	Tax Deed Sale
Auction Format	In-person public auction (no online bidding)
Location	Johnson County Courthouse, Upstairs Courtroom
Address	222 W Main St, Mountain City, TN 37683
Typical Start Time	9:00 AM Eastern Time
Sale Frequency	As needed (usually 1–2 times per year)
Redemption Period	1 year (per Tennessee law)
Registration	On-site only, starting 1 hour before auction
Deposit Required	No deposit to register, full payment due if you win
Payment Methods	Cash, money order, or cashier’s check
Minimum Bid	On-site only, starting 1 hour before the auction
Sale Confirmation	Finalized only after Chancery Court approval
Auction Notices	Starts at the total amount owed (taxes, fees, and interest)
County Website	johnsoncountytn.gov
Tax Sale Information	johnsoncountytnchancerycourt.info

What Happens After You Win

• Pay Immediately: You must pay the full winning bid, including court costs and fees.
• Redemption Period Applies: The original owner has one year to reclaim the property.
• Court Must Approve the Sale: You don’t officially own it until the court confirms it.
• Title Isn’t Always Clear: You may need to file a quiet title action to get title insurance.
• Evictions May Be Needed: If someone is still living there, you may have to take legal action.
• Maintenance Is Your Responsibility: Once the redemption period passes, you’re in charge of taxes, upkeep, and clearing liens.

Why Invest in Johnson County, TN?

Lower Competition Than Big Cities
You won’t find massive crowds or bidding wars like in Nashville or Memphis. Smaller counties mean more breathing room for serious investors.

Affordable Property with Room to Grow
Johnson County is known for offering spacious lots and mountain-view properties at much lower prices than nearby regions.

Appealing for Retirees and Remote Workers
Many buyers are drawn to Johnson County for its peace, privacy, and good internet—perfect for long-term living or vacation rentals.

Vacation Home Potential
Close to Cherokee National Forest and Watauga Lake, this area is ideal for cabins, weekend getaways, or Airbnb-style rentals.

Real Estate and Economic Facts About Johnson County

• One of the least populated counties in Tennessee (around 17,000 people)
• Located in the Appalachian Highlands, with some of the state’s highest elevations
• Known for affordable land, clean air, and open spaces
• A rising choice for homesteaders and off-grid living enthusiasts
• Interest is growing thanks to retirees and remote workers relocating here for lifestyle reasons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register online?
No, all bidding registration must be done in person on auction day.

Do I have to pay a deposit?
No deposit is required, but full payment is due right after the auction ends.

What happens if the property is redeemed?
You’ll receive your money back, but you won’t keep the property.

Is the title clean?
Usually not. You may need to file a quiet title action before getting title insurance.

Can I see the property before bidding?
Yes, but you can’t enter the property without permission. Exterior inspections and research are recommended.

Pro Tips Before Bidding

• Use the Assessor’s Office to research each property.
• Visit the site in person—don’t rely only on photos.
• Plan your budget and stick to it.
• Bring the correct payment method: cashier’s check, money order, or cash only.
• Get legal advice if you’re unsure about liens, title clearance, or eviction.

Useful Links

• Johnson County Official Website
• Chancery Court Auction Info
• 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! 

Final Thoughts

Johnson County, Tennessee, offers a great chance for investors looking to buy property at a discount through tax sales. With fewer bidders and scenic land options, it’s a quiet but promising location for smart real estate purchases. Just remember—the process takes time, and doing your homework is essential.

Get Ready for the Next Auction

Don’t miss your next opportunity! Check our auction calendar and start preparing today. Need expert help? Book a call now and explore our free resources to make informed investment decisions!

Sign up or log in to view the full content.