Garza County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed Auction Guide

Introduction to Garza County and This Guide

Garza County sits in northwest Texas where the high plains of the Llano Estacado drop into rugged breaks and canyons. The county seat is Post, a town founded by cereal magnate C. W. Post. This article explains how Garza County conducts its redeemable tax deed auctions. You’ll learn when sales happen, how to register, the bidding process and redemption rules, and where to find updates. We’ll also share fun facts about the county, its economy and attractions, and why its tax deeds interest investors.

Overview of Garza County Tax Deed Investing

Texas does not sell tax lien certificates. Instead, counties auction redeemable tax deeds to collect unpaid property taxes. The high bidder receives a deed to the property subject to the owner’s right of redemption. If the owner redeems within the statutory period, the investor receives the purchase price plus a penalty (often called the “interest rate”). In Garza County these sales are held in person at the courthouse.

Important Details – Quick Reference

Fun Facts About Garza County

• Location and size – Garza County spans 914 square miles in northwest Texas It lies on the edge of the Llano Estacado and is drained by tributaries of the Brazos River.
  
• Climate – The region averages about 19 inches of rainfall each year and experiences hot summers (average July high around 95 °F) and cold winters (average January low about 28 °F).
  
• Early history – Archeologists found Clovis spear points and a 16‑foot imperial mammoth tusk in the county In the 1960s they discovered an ancient arrow point style now called the “Garza point”
  
• C. W. Post’s colony – Cereal pioneer C. W. Post bought 250,000 acres here in 1906 and founded the town of Post as a utopian colony. He banned liquor and speculators, built homes and a cotton mill, and even tried to induce rain by firing explosives from kites His “rain battles” were colorful but not very effective
  
• Economy – By the 1980s agribusiness, oil and gas extraction and textile mills were the major industries; 94 % of the county land was devoted to ranching and farming
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

Garza County offers scenic canyons, ranchlands and small‑town hospitality. Lake Alan Henry provides boating, fishing and camping. The Post‑Garza County Museum showcases local history and hosts Founders Day each September Visitors enjoy exploring the historic downtown of Post and local shops. Major highways include U.S. Highway 84, U.S. Highway 380 and State Highway 207, which connect the county to Lubbock and Abilene. The economy relies on cotton, cattle, oil and natural gas Many residents work in agriculture or energy, and the area’s wide‑open spaces appeal to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Why Garza County Tax Deeds Appeal to Investors

The combination of high redemption premiums and low minimum bids can make Texas tax deed auctions attractive. Garza County’s economy remains stable because of its mix of agriculture and energy industries Property values are modest, so the cost of acquiring tax deeds is often lower than in large urban counties. Investors can earn 25 % to 50 % premiums if owners redeem. In addition, the county’s small population and rural nature mean auctions have fewer bidders, providing more opportunities.

Auction Process for Redeemable Tax Deed Sales

Garza County conducts its tax deed auctions in person on the courthouse steps. Sales occur on the first Tuesday of each month and must start between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Time. When the first Tuesday falls on January 1 or July 4, the sale moves to Wednesday. Auction notices are posted on the county website and at the courthouse at least three weeks before the sale. Each notice lists the property’s legal description, taxes owed, and minimum bid (the amount of delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and costs).

How the Auction Works

1. Arrive early and register – Bidders must register on site just before the sale. Bring identification and a cashier’s check or cash. Some counties require a bidder’s statement from the tax office confirming you owe no delinquent taxes.
   
2. Bidding – The auctioneer calls each parcel in the order listed. Bidding begins at the minimum bid. Texas uses a premium bid method: the highest bid wins. There is no interest bidding; investors compete by raising the purchase price.
   
3. Payment – If you win a parcel, you must pay the full bid amount immediately with cash or a cashier’s check. In‑person sales do not require a deposit to bid, but online auctions may collect a deposit to verify funds.
   
4. Title – The county issues a Sheriff’s Deed or Constable’s Deed. Title is subject to the property owner’s right of redemption and any IRS liens. Buyers are responsible for research and potential quiet title actions after the redemption period.
   
5. Unsold properties – If a parcel receives no bids, it may be struck‑off to the taxing entities. Some counties sell these “struck‑off” properties over the counter, often at the minimum bid or lower.
   

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns

Texas tax deeds offer strong returns because redemption premiums are set by statute. For non‑homestead properties, owners have 180 days to redeem by paying the purchase price plus a 25 % penalty. For homestead or agricultural properties, owners have up to two years; if redeemed during the second year, the penalty increases to 50 %. There is no prorated interest: whether the owner redeems after 30 days or 179 days, the investor still receives the full 25 % premium. This gives investors predictable returns. However, many properties never redeem, and investors then hold the property free and clear (subject to other liens). Expected returns depend on how quickly owners redeem. Historically, investors who target small rural counties like Garza often obtain parcels for minimal amounts and may earn significant appreciation if the property is retained.

Open to All Investors – Domestic and International

Texas law does not restrict participation based on residency. Anyone aged 18 or older can bid at Garza County tax deed auctions. Foreign investors are welcome but should consult an attorney to understand U.S. tax requirements and property ownership rules. Online auctions require registration, identity verification and sometimes a deposit. For in‑person sales, bring proper identification and funds. International bidders should consider currency conversion and wire transfer timing. Because the premium is fixed by statute, investors know their potential return before bidding.

Due Diligence for Garza County Tax Deed Investing

What Due Diligence Entails

Successful investing begins before the auction. Review the tax sale list and examine each property’s condition, location, zoning and market value. Visit the property when possible or use online mapping tools. Check for IRS liens, municipal liens, and whether the property is in a flood zone or subject to environmental restrictions. Confirm whether the property is a homestead or agricultural property to understand the redemption period.

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Buying sight‑unseen can lead to unpleasant surprises. Structures may be dilapidated, occupied, or destroyed. Utility liens or demolition orders could exist. Some parcels are landlocked or too small to develop. Redemption is not guaranteed; if the owner does not redeem, you may need to evict occupants, clear title, and pay future taxes. Always research thoroughly before bidding and factor potential costs into your maximum bid.

Why Garza County Is a Top Choice for Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Garza County’s mix of agriculture, energy and small‑town tourism keeps its economy stable Oil and gas extraction has provided revenue since the 1940s, and cotton, sorghum, wheat and hay remain important crops. The region’s low property values mean the taxes owed on delinquent parcels are often modest, allowing investors to acquire deeds for a fraction of market value. Texas has no state income tax, and property taxes are the main source of local revenue. The state’s tax deed system rewards investors with generous premiums while still protecting property owners.

Real Estate Market Overview

Garza County’s real estate market is characterized by rural acreage, agricultural tracts and modest homes in Post and small communities. According to the Texas Almanac, the county covers 893 square miles of land. Home prices are generally lower than in urban counties, but the market benefits from proximity to Lubbock via U.S. Highway 84. Investors interested in recreational land appreciate the county’s scenic canyons and access to Lake Alan Henry. Because the supply of properties at auction is small, competition remains manageable.

Conclusion

Garza County holds its redeemable tax deed auction on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. Central Time at the county courthouse. Interested bidders register at the sale and should bring cash or a cashier’s check. Redemption periods vary: 180 days for non‑homestead property and two years for homestead or agricultural land. Investors earn a 25 % premium if the owner redeems within the first year and 50 % if redeemed in the second year. Because Garza County is small and rural, auctions have fewer bidders, providing opportunities to acquire property at low cost. Always perform thorough due diligence and consult local officials before bidding. With careful planning, Garza County tax deed investing can offer high returns with manageable risk.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early – Registration is on‑site and may close promptly at the start time. Getting there early ensures you can register and ask questions.
  
• Bring multiple cashier’s checks – Prepare several cashier’s checks in different denominations so you can quickly pay the exact bid amount without overpaying. Some bidders bring one check for the minimum bid and others for likely increments.
  
• Check zoning and access – Rural parcels may be landlocked or zoned for agriculture only. Verify road access and land use restrictions before bidding.
  
• Inspect properties – When possible, drive by the property to assess condition. Use satellite imagery if you cannot visit in person. Avoid properties with obvious structural damage or environmental concerns.
  
• Follow up on strike‑off lists – If a property does not sell at auction, it may be available over the counter. Contact the county tax office to inquire about purchasing struck‑off parcels at a fixed price.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to clear existing liens after purchase? The tax deed extinguishes most junior liens but not IRS liens or municipal liens. Buyers are responsible for resolving any remaining liens and should consider a quiet title action after the redemption period.
   
2. Can I finance my bids? No. Payment is due immediately after winning the bid. Use cash or a cashier’s check. Some online platforms may allow ACH or wire payments, but funds must be available at closing.
   
3. What happens if the property is occupied? If the owner does not redeem, you acquire the property subject to occupancy. Eviction may be necessary. Always follow Texas landlord‑tenant law and consider hiring an attorney.
   
4. How do I obtain a clear title? After the redemption period ends, investors often file a quiet title action in district court to remove any clouds on the title. This legal process can take several months and may require attorney fees.
   

Can I renovate or resell during the redemption period? You may not take possession or make improvements until the redemption period ends. Doing so could complicate redemption and may not be reimbursed. Wait until you receive a deed free of redemption rights before renovating or selling.

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

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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