Gregg County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed: Investor’s Guide to Tax Sales

Introduction of the county and about the article

Gregg County sits in the forested hills of East Texas with Longview as its county seat. The county is part of the Longview metropolitan area and it blends historic charm with modern industry. This article explains how Gregg County conducts tax deed sales, what investors need to know before they bid, and why the area’s economy and real estate market make it attractive for long‑term investments. Every section uses simple language and official sources to give readers confidence when exploring tax deed opportunities.

What is/Brief Overview of County’s Tax Lien/Deed Investing

Texas sells redeemable tax deeds rather than traditional tax liens. When owners fail to pay property taxes, the county obtains a court judgment and sells the property at a public auction. The winning bidder receives a deed but must wait through a redemption period during which the owner can repurchase the property. If the owner redeems, they must reimburse the purchase price plus a statutory premium, which is the bidder’s return. Gregg County tax deeds therefore offer a blend of real estate ownership and lien‑style returns.

Important Details

Fun Facts About the County

• Oil boom heritage – The discovery of oil near Kilgore in 1930 created the East Texas Oil Field and caused the county’s population to increase more than fivefold by 1940. The county’s economy still benefits from energy and refining.
  
• Population and economy – Gregg County had about 124 860 residents in 2023. Median household income sits around $64 809 with a median property value of $185 800.
  
• Education and workforce – The largest higher‑education institutions are Kilgore College, LeTourneau University and the Barber Institute of Texas, which together produce well‑trained graduates. Major employers include Eastman Chemical, Trinity Rail Group, AAON Coil Products and Komatsu Mining.
  
• Transportation hub – Longview sits at the crossroads of Interstate 20, U.S. Highways 80 and 259, and several state highways. The region offers rail service and the nearby East Texas Regional Airport.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

• Museums and history – The East Texas Oil Museum at Kilgore College preserves the story of the 1930s oil boom and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. The museum features a replica boomtown and immersive exhibits that educate visitors about the county’s energy heritage. The Longview Museum of Fine Arts promotes visual arts by exhibiting and preserving works of art.
  
• Outdoor parks – The county offers green spaces like Paul Boorman Trail, Lear Park and smaller city parks for walking, biking and sports. These parks provide family‑friendly recreation and host community events.
  
• Transportation – Interstate 20 and U.S. Highways 80 and 259 connect Longview to Dallas, Shreveport and Houston. Rail lines and regional airports support freight and passenger travel, making the area attractive for logistics and distribution.
  
• Economy – Energy, manufacturing, healthcare and education drive the local economy. Major plants produce chemicals, railcars and industrial equipment. Retail and healthcare provide thousands of jobs. Moderate property values combined with a growing population create steady demand for housing.
  

Why This County is Ideal for Tax Lien/Deed Investors

Gregg County combines a stable economy with reasonable property values and a large housing stock. The median home price around $185 800 is lower than many urban markets yet still offers solid appreciation. Strong employers in energy and manufacturing provide jobs, while highways and rail lines create economic resilience. Investors who buy redeemable deeds can earn high returns through Texas’s generous redemption premiums (25%–50%) with relatively low risk because of the strict foreclosure process and quick auctions. These factors make Gregg County an appealing place for both new and experienced tax deed investors.

Auction Process for Tax Lien/Deed Sales

Texas law requires tax sales to occur on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., although Gregg County’s sheriff advertises a sale on the third Tuesday. Sales may be conducted in person on the courthouse steps or online through a contracted platform. Properties are sold in the order listed in the official notice.

How the Auction Works

1. Notice and lists – The county posts a notice of sale with the date, time and legal description at least 21 days before the sale. Investors should review the list and perform due diligence.
   
2. Registration – Bidders must register with the tax assessor‑collector before the sale. Some counties require a statement of no delinquent taxes and photo identification. Online auctions may require a cash deposit or wire transfer.
   
3. Bidding – The auctioneer announces the minimum bid, which equals taxes owed, penalties, interest and costs. Bidders compete by offering higher amounts. For homestead or agricultural tracts sold as liens, the premium (25%–50%) may be bid down, but most Gregg County sales involve full deeds. The highest bid wins.
   
4. Payment – Winners must pay the full purchase price by the end of the sale, typically by 4 p.m. the same day. Accepted payments are cash or certified funds. If the buyer fails to pay, the property may be offered to the next highest bidder.
   

Deed and redemption – After payment, the sheriff or constable issues a deed without warranty. The buyer must record the deed with the county clerk. Owners have the statutory redemption period (180 days or two years) to reclaim the property by paying the purchase price plus the mandated premium. If the owner does not redeem, the investor gains clear title after the redemption period expires.

Maximum Potential Returns and Expected Returns on Gregg County Tax Deed Certificates

Investors purchase redeemable deeds expecting either to receive the property or to earn a premium. When owners redeem within the allowed period, they must pay the purchase price plus 25% in the first year or 50% in the second year. For non‑homestead property redeemed within 180 days, the premium is up to 25%. That premium is not prorated, so investors who hold a deed for even a few weeks can earn the full percentage. If the property is not redeemed, investors obtain ownership and can sell, rent or develop the parcel. The returns therefore depend on whether the owner redeems and the property’s market value, but they often exceed returns available from conventional bonds or savings accounts.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Texas law does not restrict tax deed auctions to residents. Both U.S. and international investors may participate as long as they meet the county’s registration requirements. Foreign investors should obtain a taxpayer identification number and consult legal counsel about holding U.S. real estate. Online bidding platforms accept registrations from outside the state, though additional identity verification may be required. Because deeds convey ownership, buyers should be prepared to pay property taxes and insurance and to manage or sell the property. Gregg County’s market offers global investment opportunities thanks to its low barriers to entry and attractive redemption premiums.

What Due Diligence Entails

Investors should never bid on a property without thorough research.

Outline the steps investors should take to perform due diligence

• Review the official sale notice – Confirm the property’s legal description, tax account number and opening bid. Check for any changes or cancellations.
  
• Inspect the property – Drive by the parcel to verify its condition and location. Texas law sells property “as is”, so repairs or environmental issues become the buyer’s responsibility.
  
• Check title records – Search county records for liens, easements or judgments that may survive the sale. Some liens, such as federal tax liens or municipal utility liens, might remain.
  
• Estimate value and exit strategy – Compare nearby property sales, rent levels and market trends. Have a plan for resale, rental or redevelopment if the property is not redeemed.
  

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping due diligence can lead to costly surprises. Hidden environmental problems, unmarketable title or structures that are uninhabitable may turn a seemingly cheap purchase into a liability. Some properties may lack road access or have substantial demolition costs. Buyers who fail to research redemption rights might misjudge how long capital will be tied up. Taking time to research each property reduces risk and leads to smarter bidding.

Why Gregg County is a Top Choice for Tax Lien/Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Gregg County’s economy has diversified beyond oil to include manufacturing, healthcare, retail and education. The county’s central location along Interstate 20 provides access to major Texas and Louisiana markets. Property taxes remain moderate compared with larger metropolitan areas, and the county offers homestead exemptions for residents. Local government invests in infrastructure and workforce development, supporting steady job growth.

Real Estate Market Overview

Median home prices around $185 800 make Gregg County affordable yet ripe for appreciation. The county’s 59.5% homeownership rate indicates a solid base of owner occupants, while rental demand is bolstered by college students and industrial workers. A growing population and new manufacturing projects create ongoing demand for housing. Tax deed investors who acquire property can rehabilitate homes and either rent or sell at competitive prices.

Conclusion

Tax deed investing in Gregg County offers a compelling combination of high returns and manageable risk. Texas law guarantees a 25%–50% premium on redeemed deeds, while unredeemed properties can become profitable real estate holdings. The county’s stable economy, moderate property values and strong job base enhance long‑term value. Investors should always perform due diligence, verify sale dates and register properly. With careful research and a clear strategy, Gregg County’s tax sales can become a rewarding addition to an investment portfolio.

Pro Tips

• Start small – Attend a sale as an observer to understand the process before bidding. Practice by researching a few properties and calculating potential returns.
  
• Check local announcements – Gregg County sometimes conducts tax sales on the third Tuesday rather than the statewide first Tuesday. Always verify the date, time and location through official notices.
  
• Get a “no delinquent taxes” statement – Obtain this document from the tax assessor‑collector ahead of the sale to avoid last‑minute issues.
  
• Budget for improvements – Many properties need repairs or cleanup. Plan for renovation costs and be conservative in your bidding to maintain profitability.
  
• Network with locals – Connect with real estate agents, attorneys and other investors in Longview. Local knowledge about neighborhoods, zoning and market demand can help you choose better properties.
  

FAQs for Gregg County Tax Deeds

1. Do I need to fix up the property before the redemption period ends?
   No. You cannot disturb occupants until the redemption period expires. Wait until the owner’s right to redeem has passed before investing significant funds. Basic maintenance and securing the property are allowed.
   
2. How do I quiet title after redemption expires?
   If the property is not redeemed, you should file a quiet‑title action to remove any remaining interest and obtain title insurance. Many investors hire a Texas attorney to handle this process, which may take several months.
   
3. What happens to mortgages and other liens?
   Property tax liens are senior to mortgages, so mortgage liens are wiped out at the sale. However, federal tax liens or municipal liens may remain. Conduct a title search to identify surviving encumbrances.
   
4. Can I finance my bid?
   No. Tax sales require payment in full on the day of the sale, usually by cash or certified funds. Investors should have readily available capital or credit lines before bidding.
   

Is the property vacant or occupied?
Some properties are vacant, while others may still be occupied by the former owner or tenants. After the redemption period, you must follow Texas eviction procedures if occupants refuse to leave. It is wise to inspect the property from the street before bidding.

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?

Gregg County auctions are listed now in our Auction Calendar. Explore what’s available and use our free resources to guide your decisions. If you’d like direct help understanding the steps or planning your next move, just book a call and speak with an expert.

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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