Lubbock County, Texas Redeemable Tax Deed – Everything You Need to Know About Tax Sales

Introduction

Lubbock County sits on the southern High Plains of West Texas. The county seat, Lubbock, is nicknamed “Hub City” because it is the region’s economic, educational and healthcare hub. According to 2025 population projections, the county has about 332,430 resident. It is home to Texas Tech University, thriving cotton farms and growing healthcare and education industries. This article explains how Lubbock County conducts tax‐foreclosure sales, what a redeemable tax deed means for investors and how to participate responsibly. It also highlights local attractions and economic facts to give you context before you bid.

What Are Redeemable Tax Deeds in Lubbock County?

Texas counties sell redeemable tax deeds, also known as tax deeds with a right of redemption. When a property owner fails to pay property taxes, the county may foreclose and auction the real estate. The winning bidder receives a sheriff’s deed but does not get immediate marketable title. Instead, the former owner has a statutory period to redeem the property by reimbursing the purchaser’s bid plus a redemption premium. In Lubbock County, the redemption period is two years for homestead or agricultural property and 180 days for most other property. If the owner does not redeem within that time, the purchaser can quiet the title and take full ownership.

Important Details

Detail	Lubbock County Tax Sale Information
Tax sale type	Redeemable tax deed; winning bidder receives a sheriff’s deed and must wait through the redemption period.
Typical sale date	Auctions are scheduled for the first Tuesday of each month between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. If the first Tuesday is a holiday, the sale happens on Wednesday.
Redemption period	2 years for homestead or agricultural property; 180 days for other real estate.
Redemption premium / interest rate	Property owners must repay your bid plus 25 % during the first year and 50 % if they redeem in the second year. Non‑homestead property carries a fixed 25 % premium.
Bid procedure	Public oral auction at the county courthouse. Sales are awarded to the highest cash bidder. Registration and valid ID are required. Bidders must pay in full immediately using cash or certified funds.
Deposit	Lubbock County does not require a deposit to bid. Winning bidders who fail to pay may be liable for a 20 % penalty on the property’s value.
Typical registration period	Registration occurs on the day of the sale starting shortly before 10 a.m. Arrive early with government‑issued identification and proof of funds.
Auction location	Lubbock County conducts sales at 904 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas, usually at the gazebo on the front lawn of the county courthouse. Alternative locations, such as the courthouse auditorium, are listed in the sale notice.
Contact for more information	Lubbock County Tax Assessor‑Collector: 806‑775‑1344; email [email protected].
Where to find upcoming sales	Sale notices are posted at the courthouse, published in the local newspaper and uploaded to the county’s website. Check the Lubbock County tax office or local public notices for monthly listings.

Fun Facts About Lubbock County

• Population growth: Lubbock County’s population is projected to reach 332,430 people by 2025, up from 327,394 in 2024.
  
• Young community: The median age is 31.7 years, reflecting the large student population at Texas Tech University.
  
• Income and diversity: The median household income is $63,367, and roughly 52 % of residents are white, 36 % Hispanic and 7 % Black.
  
• Hub City nickname: Lubbock is known as “Hub City” because it serves as the economic, educational and healthcare center for West Texas.
  
• Cotton capital: The county lies in the largest contiguous cotton‑growing region in the world and relies on irrigation from the Ogallala Aquifer.
  

Attractions & Economic Highlights

Lubbock offers more than tax sale opportunities. The county’s attractions include the Ranching Heritage Center, the Buddy Holly Center and the Silent Wings Museum. Outdoorsy visitors enjoy the Lubbock Lake Landmark archaeological preserve and the network of city parks and trails. Transportation is robust: the I‑27 interstate runs north–south through Lubbock County, while U.S. 62/82, US 84 and US 87 serve east‑west and north‑south traffic, and Loop 289 encircles the city.

Economically, health services form Lubbock’s largest industry cluster. The sector employs nearly 17 % of workers and is 1.4 times more concentrated than the U.S. average, with major employers including the University Medical Center, Covenant Health System and Lubbock Heart Hospital. Education is the second‑largest cluster, employing 13 % of the workforce and anchored by Texas Tech University and several smaller colleges. The region’s agribusiness harvests about 25 % of the U.S. cotton crop and attracted corporate investment such as Monsanto’s cottonseed processing plant.

Why Lubbock County Is Ideal for Tax Deed Investors

Investors looking for high returns and stable markets will find Lubbock County attractive. The area’s strong job growth in healthcare, education and agribusiness supports steady real estate demand. Population is growing and remains relatively young, ensuring a future workforce. Because Texas issues redeemable tax deeds, investors may earn 25–50 % premiums if owners redeem. Compared with stocks or bonds, these returns are competitive and backed by tangible property. However, investors must understand the auction process and redemption rules to mitigate risk.

Auction Process for Tax Lien/Deed Sales in Lubbock County

Texas statutes require tax foreclosure sales to occur on the first Tuesday of each month. Sales must be held between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the county courthouse or a designated area. If the first Tuesday falls on January 1 or July 4, the sale moves to Wednesday. Lubbock County typically holds its auction at the courthouse gazebo at 904 Broadway, though alternative locations may be listed in the notice.

How the Auction Works

1. Notice of sale: The sheriff or constable posts a written notice at the courthouse and publishes it in a local newspaper at least 21 days before the auction.
   
2. Registration: Arrive early on auction day and register with the sheriff or auctioneer. Bring a government‑issued ID and proof of funds. Registration is usually open on the morning of the sale.
   
3. Bidding: Auctions are public and oral. The auctioneer reads each property description and opens bidding. You bid in increments until a high bid is reached. The highest bidder wins the property and must pay immediately with cash or cashier’s check.
   
4. Payment: If you win but fail to pay, you may be liable for a penalty equal to 20 % of the property’s value. After payment, the sheriff issues a sheriff’s deed conveying the county’s interest in the property. The deed does not include warranties; title insurance may be difficult until after the redemption period.
   
5. Redemption period: The former owner retains the right to redeem the property within 2 years for homestead or agricultural property or 180 days for other property. If the owner redeems, they must repay your bid plus 25 % (or 50 % if redeemed in the second year).
   

Quiet title: If no redemption occurs, you may file a quiet‑title action to obtain full ownership and clear liens. Consult a local attorney for this process.

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

Texas’ redemption premium offers attractive potential returns. When you purchase a redeemable tax deed, you essentially loan your purchase price to the delinquent taxpayer. If the owner redeems during the first year, you receive your bid plus a 25 % premium. If redemption occurs in the second year, you earn a 50 % premium. Non‑homestead property has a 180‑day redemption window with a fixed 25 % return. These returns are significantly higher than typical bank interest or bond yields. However, investors should note that there is no interest beyond the statutory premium and no guarantee of redemption. If the property does not redeem, you will own the real estate, which may require maintenance, insurance and a quiet‑title action.

Open to All Investors / Foreign Investor Participation

Texas law allows any qualified adult to bid at county tax sales. There is no residency requirement, so out‑of‑state and international investors may participate. International bidders should be prepared to travel to the auction or appoint a trusted agent with power of attorney. There is no pre‑qualification beyond proof of funds and government‑issued identification. As a result, Lubbock’s tax sales attract a mix of local investors and buyers from outside Texas seeking high returns. Be aware that foreign investors may face additional steps to open U.S. bank accounts or manage property after purchase. Always seek professional guidance when investing from abroad.

What Due Diligence Entails

Steps Investors Should Take

1. Research the property: Obtain the legal description and check location, zoning and current occupants. Drive by the property but do not trespass.
   
2. Check title records: Search for liens, mortgages, judgments and municipal code violations. Remember that tax deeds are sold “as is” and are subordinate to certain liens.
   
3. Estimate property value: Compare recent sales in the area, assess condition from the street and account for needed repairs.
   
4. Calculate costs: Budget for taxes, insurance, maintenance, quiet‑title action and potential eviction expenses.
   
5. Consult professionals: A real‑estate attorney or title company can help identify risks and ensure compliance.
   

Risks of Skipping Due Diligence

Skipping due diligence can lead to unpleasant surprises. You may discover hidden liens, structural damage or environmental issues after purchase. Occupants could resist eviction, forcing you into lengthy legal proceedings. Properties might be landlocked, subject to easements or ineligible for redevelopment. By thoroughly vetting each parcel before bidding, you protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.

Buying Over‑the‑Counter (OTC) Liens/Deeds in Lubbock County

When properties do not sell at auction, they become “struck‑off” or “trust‑property” parcels held by the county. Lubbock County may offer these over the counter at a set price. Buyers submit a written offer to the tax office and pay the minimum price plus fees. OTC properties still carry the same redemption periods and premium rates as auctioned deeds. The main benefit of OTC purchases is no bidding competition and a fixed purchase price. However, due diligence is essential because many struck‑off properties have issues that discouraged bidders at auction.

Why Lubbock County is a Top Choice for Tax Deed Investors

Economic and Tax Advantages

Lubbock’s diverse economy provides a stable base for real estate values. Health services and education account for 30 % of employment, and major employers such as Texas Tech University and University Medical Center contribute billions of dollars to the local economy. The county benefits from low property taxes relative to many states and a business‑friendly environment. The region’s position between the Permian Basin and the Texas Panhandle makes it a transportation hub with direct access to major highways. These factors support long‑term property demand and reduce risk for investors.

Real Estate Market Overview

Housing in Lubbock remains affordable compared with national averages. Median home prices have risen steadily but remain well below those of Austin or Dallas. Rental demand is fueled by a young population and thousands of college student. Investors who acquire a tax‑deed property that does not redeem may find a ready market for resale or rental. Vacant lots in growing suburbs also offer potential for redevelopment. As always, examine zoning and future development plans before bidding.

Conclusion

Lubbock County’s tax foreclosure auctions provide an opportunity to earn substantial returns while investing in a growing West Texas community. Redeemable tax deeds mean that you either receive a 25–50 % premium if the owner redeems or acquire the property after a short redemption period. The county’s first‑Tuesday auctions, held at the courthouse between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., are open to all qualified bidders. Lubbock’s strong economy, youthful population and affordable housing make it an attractive target for investors. Success depends on thorough due diligence, understanding redemption laws and following county procedures. Consider attending a sale in person or consulting local professionals before investing.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early: Registration opens before the 10 a.m. auction. Early arrival ensures you receive a bidder number and can review last‑minute announcements.
  
• Bring multiple cashier’s checks: Bring several checks in different denominations to cover potential bids. Sellers will not wait for you to obtain funds.
  
• Budget for redemption: While a 25–50 % premium is attractive, plan for the possibility that the property will not redeem. Know your exit strategy and maintenance costs.
  
• Inspect from the street: Never enter occupied property without permission. Exterior inspection can reveal major issues and help you gauge value.
  
• Consult experts: Work with a real‑estate attorney, title company and real‑estate agent familiar with Lubbock County. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I win a property? You must pay immediately and will receive a sheriff’s deed. The former owner has 180 days or 2 years to redeem, depending on the property type.

Can I enter or renovate the property during the redemption period? You may secure and maintain the property but should avoid major renovations until the redemption period ends. Keep receipts because reasonable maintenance costs may be reimbursed if the property redeems.

How do I quiet the title after redemption? Once the redemption period expires without redemption, hire an attorney to file a quiet‑title action. This legal process clears remaining liens and allows you to obtain title insurance.

Are properties sold free of liens? Tax deeds may be subject to certain liens (federal tax liens, municipal liens or homeowner association dues). Conduct a thorough title search before bidding to understand outstanding obligations.Can I finance my bid? No. Payment must be in cash or certified funds at the auction. However, you may use private money lenders or lines of credit to obtain funds before the sale.

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?

Lubbock County is offering tax-sale properties now. Visit our Auction Calendar, use the free resources to plan your next move, and when you’re ready for expert guidance, go ahead and book a call.

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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