Guide to Borden County, Texas Tax Sales

If you don’t pay your property taxes, you might lose your property. In Borden County, Texas, they sell properties to collect unpaid taxes. Instead of selling tax liens, Texas sells redeemable tax deeds. This means a buyer can purchase the deed at an auction, but the original owner can get it back by paying what they owe plus some extra fees. 

Tax sales follow Texas law and happen on the first Tuesday of each month, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This explains how Borden County conducts these sales and why they can be appealing for buyers.

Important Tax Sale Details

Brief Overview of Borden County’s Tax Deeds

Texas operates as a redeemable tax deed state, where properties can be auctioned for unpaid taxes. The original owner retains a right of redemption for up to 2 years, allowing them to reclaim their property by paying back the investor plus a premium. 

Borden County, with an estimated population of 556 in 2025, is known for its agriculture and oil-driven economy, boasting low poverty and unemployment rates. The county, established in 1876 and named after Gail Borden Jr., features a mix of rolling plains and notable landmarks. Outdoor activities thrive, with attractions like the Caprock Escarpment and Lake J.B. Thomas, while residents enjoy a close-knit community and low cost of living. The county’s economy has historically been anchored in ranching and oil production, which remains significant today.

Why Borden County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

High Returns with Manageable Risk

Texas’ redeemable tax deed structure can produce high returns. Investors who purchase a deed receive a premium of 25 % if the owner redeems within the first year and 50 % if redemption occurs in the second year. Compared with typical bank interest rates, these returns are significant. Because many parcels in Borden County are rural acreage with modest assessed values, bidding can be less competitive than in urban counties. The low population also means fewer investors are aware of upcoming auctions. If a property is not redeemed within the statutory period, the deed becomes absolute and the investor acquires the property – which may include oil‑ and mineral rights – for the price of delinquent taxes. Given Borden County’s history of oil production and agricultural value, the potential upside is notable.

Auction Process for Tax Deed Sales

Sales take place on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Borden County Courthouse, 117 E. Wasson Street, Gail, TX 79738. The sheriff or constable conducts the sale, beginning with the judgment amount (taxes, penalties, interest, and costs). The highest oral bid wins, subject to redemption.

Registration and Payment

State law requires bidders to file an affidavit stating they do not owe delinquent taxes in Texas. Registration usually opens shortly before the sale. Bring valid photo ID and contact information. Payment is typically due the same day—cashier’s checks are the standard form of payment. Always confirm requirements with the county clerk’s office before attending.

Maximum Potential Returns

Investors can earn substantial returns in two ways:

• Redemption Premium: The owner must reimburse the investor the bid amount plus 25 % during the first year or 50 % in the second year. Because the premium is calculated on the entire purchase price, even a low‑cost parcel can yield a sizable return.
  
• Property Acquisition: If the owner fails to redeem, the investor obtains title to the property after 180 days (non‑homestead) or 2 years (homestead/agricultural). Investors may then sell, lease or develop the land, potentially realizing appreciation or rental income. In Borden County, the combination of agricultural land, ranch homes and oil leases can make ownership rewarding.
  

Open to All Investors

There are no residency restrictions. U.S. and international investors can participate, but foreign buyers should seek tax and legal advice before bidding.

Understanding the Borden County Tax Deed Sale Process

Step‑by‑Step Overview

1. Research the sale list. Notices of tax sale properties are posted at the courthouse door and published in the local newspaper at least 20 days before the auction. Check the Borden County Clerk’s “public notices” page or law firm websites like MVBA for upcoming lists.
   
2. Perform due diligence. Drive by the property, verify its location, condition and access, and contact the appraisal district (Borden County Appraisal District) to check assessed value and tax history. Order a title search if possible to discover liens or encumbrances.
   
3. Register and attend the sale. On the morning of the auction, register with the sheriff or constable, present identification and sign any required affidavit. Ensure you have funds available for immediate payment. Bidding typically begins at 10 a.m.
   
4. Bid and pay. Bids usually start at the judgment amount. Raise your hand or call out your bid. If you win, remit full payment on the spot. Obtain your sheriff’s deed once the county records the sale.
   
5. Monitor redemption. The redemption period begins when the deed is filed. If the owner redeems, they must pay you the purchase price plus the statutory premium. If redemption does not occur by the statutory deadline, you secure title.

The Importance of Due Diligence in Borden County Investing

Due Diligence is Essential

Before bidding, confirm the property’s condition, access, and title status. Some liens may survive the sale. Check records at the Borden County Appraisal District, run a title search if possible, and consider environmental or zoning factors. Skipping these steps can turn a “bargain” into a liability.

Over-the-Counter Options

If no one bids on a property, it may later be sold directly by the county. OTC purchases eliminate auction competition, but redemption rules still apply.

Local Market Snapshot

Borden County sits in the Permian Basin, an area known for oil production and agriculture. Housing remains affordable, with average home values under $100,000. Limited inventory and steady demand for ranch and recreational land help keep the market active.

Conclusion

Borden County has tax deed auctions that are great for people who want to invest. In Texas, they have these sales on the first Tuesday of every month. The auctions happen between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the courthouse. The cool thing about Texas is that if you buy a deed, you might get a big return, usually between 25% and 50%. 

Borden County is not very big and has low property prices. It’s a rural area where farming and oil are important. Because of this, not many people show up to the auctions. If you do your homework and know how the redemption rules work, you could make good money while also helping local governments collect taxes. 

Always remember to talk to a lawyer or check with the Borden County Tax Assessor-Collector for the latest sale dates and how to take part in the auction.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early: Registration may close when the auction begins. Arriving by 9:30 a.m. ensures you can register and ask last‑minute questions.
  
• Bring multiple cashier’s checks: Prepare checks in various denominations to quickly pay the exact purchase price without overpaying.
  
• Verify redemption type: Ensure you know whether a parcel is homestead/agricultural (2‑year redemption) or non‑homestead (6‑month redemption). This affects your holding period.
  
• Check mineral rights: Many properties in Borden County include oil and gas rights; verify whether these rights convey with the deed.
  
• Budget for fees: Besides the bid amount, expect recording fees, possible title insurance and costs associated with quieting title after the redemption period.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Useful Links

• Auction Calendar
• How to Profit from Texas’s Redeemable Deeds
• 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! 
• Learn How to maximize profits at the Texas Tax Sales

Need a Hand?

Navigating tax deed auctions can be complex. Check out our Auction Calendar to find your next property. If you’d like help researching properties, performing due diligence or understanding the legal requirements, feel free to Book a consultation with us. Our free resources and case studies can help you make confident, informed decisions. Leave a comment or send us a message – we’re here to help you succeed.

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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

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